Watch Frankfort's Tree-Lighting Ceremony (VIDEO)

FRANKFORT, IL — Village officials ushered in the holiday season Thursday with Frankfort's annual tree-lighting ceremony on Breidert Green. Nearly 1,000 people turned out for the event, including Mayor Jim Holland, Village Clerk Adam Borrelli and Trustees Cindy Heath, Keith Ogle, Mike Stevens and John Clavio. Oh, and two famous North Pole residents were on hand, too, riding in by fire truck.

Frankfort's tree-lighting ceremony signals the beginning of December's holiday events throughout the village. Festivities continue with downtown's 32nd annual Christkindl weekend Saturday and Sunday.

RELATED: Frankfort's Christkindl Weekend: What To Know Before You Go

Here's a look at the activities this month:

Letters to Santa: The Frankfort Park District is accepting children's letters to Santa Claus, who will write back to the kids who participate. The deadline to submit letters is 5 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 6. Go to the park district's website or call the district's office at 815-469-9400 for more information.

13th Annual Cookie Walk: This yearly event at the Trolley Barn allowing participants to gather holiday cookies from as many as 25 village businesses is already sold out. It runs from noon to 3 p.m. Dec. 9, and 10.

Santa Brunch: Dancing Marlin, 20590 S. LaGrange Road, is holding this fundraiser for KidsWork! Children's Museum, and it will include a visit with Santa and a brunch buffet. Brunch is $40 and $25 for kids 4 to 12 (children younger than 4 are free). Seatings will be offered at 9 and 11 a.m. Dec. 9.

Midnight Madness: The annual shopping event features more than 30 local businesses offering that deals, raffles, giveaways and more. Go to the Frankfort Chamber of Commerce website for a list of participating businesses.

Classic Holiday Movie Night: Families can dress in PJs and slippers to enjoy cookies, popcorn and "frozen" hot chocolate during the Frankfort Park District's holiday event, which is at 6 p.m. Dec. 21 at the Founders Community Center, 140 Oak St. Cost is $5 per child.

Noon Year's Eve Party: Ring in the new year (a few hours early) with snacks, crafts and games from 11 a.m. to noon at KidsWork! Children's Museum, 11 S. White St. And yes, there will be a countdown to noon. Cost is $5 for children with memberships and $7 for non-members. Call the museum at 815-469-1199 to reserve a spot.

WATCH: The countdown to Frankfort's tree-lighting ceremony at Breidert Green.

Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus meet with children during Frankfort's annual tree-lighting ceremony Thursday, Nov. 30 at Breidert Green. Frankfort Trustee Keith Ogle (left) and Mayor Jim Holland (center) countdown to Santa's arrival at the ceremony. (Photos via Village of Frankfort)