WRAL-TV signaled the beginning of the holiday season with its 53rd annual tower lighting celebration on Nov. 30, 2012

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The holiday season officially began on Nov. 30, 2012, when WRAL-TV held its 53rd annual tower lighting.

WRAL-TV Anchor Debra Morgan and WRAL-TV Chief Meteorologist Greg Fishel flipped the switch to turn the 300-foot tower into a Christmas tree during the 6pm newscast.

“The Madrigals” from Millbrook High School in Raleigh performed during the WRAL newscasts that evening to celebrate the tower lighting.

The Madrigals from Millbrook High School sing during the tower lighting.

Morgan & Fishel broadcast from outside the studios as man-made snow fell all around them. WRAL-TV Anchors Gerald Owens & Jackie Hyland shared the music from inside.

• See more photos from the 2012 on WRAL.com here
• See video and photos from years past here

Happy Holidays from Capitol Broadcasting!

Thanks to WRAL.com for these capcom photos & captions.