Awed by ‘Holiday in Paradise’ tree

Destin Gollamudi, 9, of Holmes Beach, appears awestruck at the site of such a grand — 40-foot — lighted Christmas tree at the “Holiday in Paradise” event Nov. 20 in Bradenton Beach. Islander Photo: Nemita “Mom” Daguinotas Gollamudi

Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus and their elves visit Bradenton Beach Nov. 20 to hear Christmas wishes! Islander Photos: Tomas Gomez

A 40-foot decorated Christmas tree welcomes people to Bridge Street in the parking lot of the Bradenton Beach Post Office. The tree was the the centerpiece in a "Holiday in Paradise" celebration hosted by the city. Islander Photo: Tomas Gomez

A cavalcade of characters — including Christmas elves and Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus — arrive Nov. 20 for a celebration at shops and restaurants on Bridge Street.

Mr. and Mrs. Claus arrive to a welcoming crowd Nov. 20 in Bradenton Beach, as Mrs. Claus reminds people on Bridge Street to behave — at least until after Dec. 25.

Santa reaches out for a handshake on the walkway, as he arrives Nov. 20 at the Historic Bridge Street Pier to hear Christmas wishes.

The Sweet Adelines perform Christmas carols during the holiday tree-lighting ceremony on Bridge Street.

Bradenton Beach city attorney Ricinda Perry, left, and Paradise Boat Tours owner Sherman Baldwin join Vice Mayor Ralph Cole in his address to the crowd as the holiday tree is lighted to signal the beginning of the holiday season.