Holiday at The Park kicks off with ceremony

Holiday at The Park kicked off Thursday night in front of the T-Mobile Arena.

An exciting opening ceremony took place outside T-Mobile Arena this evening to officially ring in Holiday at The Park. With a backdrop of ice skaters, chalets and holiday treats, Vegas Golden Knights’ in-Arena host Mark Shunock introduced performances from The Mirage’s newest headliner Matt Goss and the Las Vegas Academy Choir. Before the magnificent tree was lit, Cynthia Kiser Murphy, president & COO of New York-New York, welcomed the crowd, rejoicing in community and noting the wonder of the holidays. Finally, Santa Claus came to town, showing up like a Vegas VIP in a silver Escalade. Then a countdown commenced on T-Mobile Arena’s giant mesh screen and the tree was officially aglow.

PHOTOS: 2017 Holiday at The Park

All season long, Holiday at The Park will host ice skating for $15 or 2-for-1 pricing for locals, as well as a printed photo with Santa Claus for $25. Guests can get into the holiday spirit with specialty chalets including Hershey’s, featuring a s’mores station; Dapper Donuts, serving up fresh mini donuts; Spa 2 Go, selling spa products; and Spin Art, displaying a local artist’s works made from spray paint.

RELATED: Celebrating the holidays in Las Vegas

Every week, special events will take place at Holiday at The Park. Except game and concert nights, T-Mobile Arena will play classic holiday movies outdoors on Mondays, Thursdays and Sundays at 5 p.m. Visitors also can enjoy DJ Skate nights on Friday and Saturday evenings, as well as a Wednesday night concert series.

Holiday in the Park ends Jan. 7.