Raleigh tree lighting 2022: Unofficial start to the holiday season | Watch

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Friday night the holiday season officially started with the Downtown Raleigh Tree lighting precisely at 6:24 p.m.

Every year Raleigh kicks off the holiday season by lighting a huge tree downtown in front of Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts.

The festivities for this year's event was held from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. The tree lighting ceremony was hosted by ABC11's Joel Brown and Amber Rupinta.

The event included free photos with Santa, live music, delicious food and tons of local vendors from the Raleigh Night Market.

Another sign of the holiday season is the Raleigh Christmas Parade. It will take place Saturday morning and here's everything you need to know about it.