LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — A jaw-dropping holiday display in downtown Louisville as thousands gather for the 55th annual Light Up Louisville.

People started to make their way downtown around 3 p.m. to watch the new video-mapping show at Metro Hall. This was also the first year with a mega drone show.

The corner of South 6th Street and West Jefferson transformed into a winter wonderland for thousands of families. Children shouted "Santa, Santa" as he made his way down Jefferson Street.

IMAGES | Light Up Louisville 2024

"It's great," Roger Rendon, from Louisville, said. "Drum Corps coming through, pretty cool times. Very awesome, very awesome!"

There was a little bit of fun for everyone.

"It's fantastic!! This is our first one! It couldn't be more festive and wonderful. Everyone is so nice," Rendon said.

Light Up Louisville started with Lots of Lights parade - and lots of floats, and ended with lighting the famous 40 foot Christmas tree. Almost immediately, white lights took over the surrounding downtown buildings, too.

"I think it is great to see the community come together, especially when it is super cold outside. But I am glad everyone showed up," Jordyn Chisholm, who helped plan the event, said.

Santa flipped the switch, igniting the lights.

"We will be here every year now. Right?! Yes -- yes! We will," Michael Johns, a Louisville father who brought his daughter, said.

None of this would've been possible without event producer Joey Wagner. His team helped him bring this brand new tech show to life.

"We loved it! Oh my gosh. This was great. I mean it put you in the spirit! I mean really and truly," said a Louisville couple.

The groundbreaking video mapping show projected bright visuals onto the buildings, leaving attendees awestruck.

"This the drone show! This is great, and to be able to be out in the community, to be in a safe environment," Treshaun Merritt and Kaden Hester, two friends, said.

The free night ushered in the holiday season and left a lasting impression on young and old alike.

"It's beautiful! Absolutely beautiful," Harold Smith, a Louisville photographer, said.

"Merry Christmas," Rendon, said, as he watched the parade.

There was also a trackless train ride, market, and a large food court.

If you missed the festivities, here is a list of more holiday events.

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