SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- Now that Thanksgiving is over, another annual tradition in Syracuse can get underway. The tree lighting ceremony in downtown Syracuse starts at 6:30 p.m. with a variety of musical acts including Corcoran Live, and the Syracuse Brigadiers Alumni Drum and Bugle Corps taking to two separate stages.

Following the live performances will be the arrival of Santa Claus and then Mayor Stephanie Miner.

Between 7 p.m. and 10 p.m., thousands of people are expected to pack Clinton Square to watch the 45-foot tree light up the night and kick off the holiday season.