Mattapoisett residents came out in large number to the town's annual Christmas tree lighting on Saturday evening.

“It probably was one of the largest crowds I’ve seen,” said Town Administrator Mike Gagne. “The conditions were perfect.”

Kids gave Santa and Mrs. Claus their Christmas wishlists, town leaders served up food from area eateries and local students sang and played carols.

Sarah Piehler, a clerk in the tax collector/treasurer office, also stepped in to coordinate the event when Melody Pacheco was called away last minute.

“Sarah did a great job in picking up the coordination. I have to give her a lot of credit,” said Gagne.

He also said local businesses, the Woman’s Club and the Lions Club pitched in to make the event special.

“I really have to give credit to all of the different people who provided the refreshments.”

Gagne added, “It’s probably one of the finest examples of a true community event. I get such a charge out of seeing the young children, their faces when they meet Santa and Mrs. Claus.”

See more photos from the evening below.