Thousands of people watched the Carolina Panthers and Charlotte FC’s 12th annual tree lighting ceremony on Tuesday at the Bank of America Stadium.

ALSO READ: Fans brave wet weather for Panthers, Charlotte FC Tree Lighting Festival in 2023

This year’s tree is a 50-foot Norway spruce from Newland, North Carolina.

The festive event included letter writing, hot chocolate stations, winter crafts, meet and greets with Santa, and more, organizers said.

The event, which was held from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., was presented by Belk. Admission was free.

VIDEO: McAdenville prepares for Yule Log Parade, Christmas Tree lighting