Paradegoers braved cold, damp weather Friday night to watch the annual Parade of Lights in Waterville. Families crowded along downtown streets in the rain for the start of the holiday season.

The festivities also included the lighting of the city Christmas tree and the opening of Kringleville.

The 30-foot fir tree in the middle of Castonguay Square was donated by Cornville tree farmer Bryant LaPlante.

The annual parade and Kringleville are hosted by Waterville Main Street.