A turnout estimated at 500 to 600 adults and children turned out Sunday for the city’s second annual Christmas tree lighting at Thayer Arena. Food trucks lined the field facing the rink and at the entrance to the arena, Mayor Frank Picozzi and many city directors were ready to welcome everyone for an evening of skating and activities that included crafts, photos with Santa and getting to meet the Nutcracker and his entourage of friendly mice. Among those groups participating were the Girl Scouts who sang carols, the Carolyn Dutra Dancers and the Police Explorers who helped setup. Webster Bank served up free hot chocolate and donuts . Some people couldn’t wait for the official beginning of events to get on the ice. Skating was free for those bringing a food donation. Picozzi didn’t dawdle. He started the count down to the tree lighting with the turnout joining in. However, when the chorus reached “zero” the tree remained in the dark. There was an awkward silence and then in another minute the lights suddenly blazed bright. No stranger to Christmas light shows, Picozzi said he would see to improving the remote system for next year. (Warwick Beacon photos)