MIDDLEBORO — This Santa didn’t just flip a switch to light the Middleboro Christmas tree.

Instead, after a New Year’s Eve-like countdown, he plugged in two ends of an extension cord, a nod to Clark Griswold in the holiday movie staple “Christmas vacation.’’

And with that, the Town Hall became a bit merrier and a lot more bright.

The Middleboro Christmas tree lighting, which took place Friday, Dec. 6., grows more popular each year, said Nate Demers, the chair of the Middleboro Tourism Committee, which sponsored the event. 

“It’s a good chance to get people together and celebrate the holiday season,’’ he said.

The event featured free hot chocolate, caroling and even fake snow flurries, although the cold, provided by nature, was boot-stompingly real.

The stars of the show, of course, were Santa and Mrs. Claus, who happily greeted and took photos with youngsters.

Gemma Allen-Richards, 6, said couple was popular because “they give us presents.’’

And, sibling Gemma Allen-Richards,  chimed in, “They’re so nice.’’

Bridgette Casano is new to town and decided to check out the lighting.

The festivities helped her “get in the Christmas spirit.’’