It may have been chilly outside, but the crowd at Monday evening's tree-lighting ceremony at Brookfield City Hall was warmed by colorful lights, holiday carols and hot chocolate.

Outside, the Hillside Elementary School Brownie Troop 4473 sang carols as the city's holiday tree was lit.

Inside, residents enjoyed songs by the Brookfield Civic Chorus, children's crafts, photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus (who arrived via fire engine with sirens and lights), and hot chocolate with cookies donated by Angelina's Deli and bagels from Panera Bread.

Children could write and mail letters to Santa in a special North Pole mailbox in the City Hall clock tower. Santa promised he would answer those letters.