Merely two days after Thanksgiving hundreds were ensconced in holiday spirit at Roslindale Square for the annual Christmas tree lighting.

This year marks the 40th anniversary according to Emma Blaxter, director of Roslindale Village Main Streets (RVMS), which organizes the event. A multitude of families stood excitedly in Adams Park taking in all the Christmas decorations and lights while also enjoying hot chocolate and viewing Santa fulfill Christmas wish lists on a cool night.

After a tumultuous government shutdown, the sparkly distraction appeared very much welcome to the hundreds enjoying themselves in the Square.

RVMS created the tree lighting event because the group felt it would be a good way to draw activity to the Square and be a cool thing to fill the day, Baxter said. This year’s program ran from 3 to 5 p.m., starting with Mayor Michelle Wu and Santa (Roslindale Community School Director Dennis Kirkpatrick) arriving on a fire truck. Wu’s fire truck arrival is part of the tradition and once she and Santa settled in, they invited all the kids to gather near for the grand Christmas tree lighting.

Along with the main attraction, the event offered a performance by City Ballet and musical groups Making Music Matter and JP Honk. Baxter said the ballet was her favorite part.

“So much fun; it was a great interpretation of the classics.”

Emceeing the event was Glenn Williams who runs BNN (Boston Neighborhood Network) Media. He is also a longtime volunteer for RVMS and a community activist.

For many families attending, the get together was as much for them as it was for the kids as it offered a space and opportunity to be among friends and neighbors.

“It was something to do with the kids. This is an area that caters to family-friendly activities,” Jude David said. His daughter Addison seemed giddy and unable to contain her excitement. “I love this whole event but especially seeing Santa.”

David said he is from Hyde Park and wanted a fun night out with his family. They huddled together in line to go see Santa.

While trying to contain the excitement of a little child in a dinosaur jacket, Molly Sass said she enjoyed coming to this annual event to see neighbors and friends while taking in the performances. Michael Brod, also of Roslindale, echoed Sass’ comments and said he appreciates the community creating space for family-themed engagements.

For some patrons, though they have lived in Roslindale for years, this was their first time to the event.

Abby Wray came with her son, Teddy Wray-Towne, as well as her dog, Ani, who participated in the “Reindog” costume contest. Ani was lit up and looking very reindeer-like, however did not win the big contest. Teddy described the actual winner as “so cute and so small.”

Sarah Wetz, of Roslindale, said she lives close by to Adams Park and has attended the tree lighting for a number of years. “It’s a nice chance to kick off the holiday season. It feels like everyone comes. Santa is a draw,” she said. For some adults it was the nonstop supply of hot cocoa almost flying off the white tablecloths.

Officer Sparks-Clancy, who manned a public safety table, said this was his first tree lighting and he wanted to ensure everyone had a safe, fun night. “It’s a great event. People are happy.”