ESCANABA – The Christmas shopping season got an early start in Escanaba with the Black Friday on Tuesday special. It ended with the lighting of the tree at Centre Court on 11th and Ludington Streets.

“The cars have been parked everywhere. The downtown is full of people. hopefully, full of customers taking advantage of the sales from out stores,” said Ed LeGault, Escanaba Downtown Develepment Authority director.

Hundreds of people showed up to see Santa who talked with kids about what they wanted for Christmas. The Grinch arrived in style with a stretch limousine and hugged Santa.

“This is something you don’t see almost anywhere else in the Midwest and any of the bigger towns for sure. It’s a more personal environment. everyone is talking with each other. It’s been a great evening,” LeGault said.

The audience counted down from ten and the Christmas tree lit for the season.

“It starts the timeline for Christmas. We’ll have the Christmas parade on the 6th and there will be specials at our stores daily as we countdown to Christmas,” LeGault said.