BATTLE GROUND – The spot outside the Battle Ground Community Center where the city’s Christmas tree stands was filled with community members, families and children Friday evening as everyone gathered to take part in the annual Battle Ground Christmas Tree Lighting and Celebration.
The evening kicked off with some Christmas carols, performed by the Battle Ground High School Jazz Choir (and of course everyone was asked to join in). Santa and Mrs. Claus then arrived and lit the tree.
![Battle Ground community members gathered to view the Christmas tree lighting. Photo by Mike Schultz](https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/15289246_230501390712862_2421458314572763087_o-1024x683.jpg)
Children and families were able to visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus inside the community center, and were able to purchase photos with Santa. Event goers were also able to enjoy some refreshments such as hot cocoa and cookies.
![Gunner Johnson (4), Hockinson is happy to see Santa Claus (John Idsinga). Photo by Mike Schultz](https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/15252479_230501404046194_2210935590347641564_o-1024x819.jpg)
![Despite the rainy cool weather, Battle Ground community members gathered to view the Christmas tree lighting. Photo by Mike Schultz](https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/15325226_230501394046195_7492603779424402894_o-683x1024.jpg)
![Santa (John Idsinga) and Mrs. Claus (Colleen Hoss) meet children at the Battle Ground community Christmas tree lighting. Photo by Mike Schultz](https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/15304373_230501397379528_8728263226790106853_o-1024x819.jpg)