By LANCE STOCKHAUS

lstockhaus@dailynews.net

WaKEENEY -- Wintry weather finally has kicked in, but the cold wind couldn't stop a 58-year-old tradition.

The "Christmas City of the High Plains" hosted its annual tradition of the tree-lighting ceremony downtown on Saturday.

Hundreds of already lit Christmas wreaths and strings of lights, as well as hundreds of visitors, lined the downtown streets, while a 35-foot fresh pine tree awaited in the darkness for Santa's arrival. The tree has more than 30,00 lights and four brightly glowing, 5-foot stars that stand atop the tree.

The WaKeeney Harmony Club warmed the spirits of visitors, singing a classic selection of Christmas carols. Local merchants opened their doors late into the evening and provided a bit of shelter from the cold. Some even provided complimentary hot cider and hot chocolate, as well as sugar cookies to help vistors stay warm.

Hayracks rolled up and down the streets showcasing all the lights and sounds of downtown. Shortly after the sun set, one last chorus of "Jingle Bells" was sang and a shadow appeared in the distance.

Santa Claus approached the downtown tree in an antique horse-drawn sleigh, waving as he went by.

Santa disappeared under the tree and within moments the downtown intersection was bright and glowing.

Santa then walked down the street to North Pole Park where he was followed by dozens of children ready to share their Christmas wishes.

"I asked Santa for a Webkinz and a Build-a-Bear," said 7-year-old Aspen Romeiser.

Aspen's mother has been coming to the ceremony since she was a child.

"I remember coming with my aunt and uncle when I was young," Andrea Romeiser said.

The Romeisers are originally from Bison and recently moved to Branson, Mo., but still found the time to make it back home for the holidays.

Romeiser said it was great to be back with family and to share the experience with her daughters.