THOMASVILLE — The rain stayed away and the temperatures helped set the mood for the 33rd annual Victorian Christmas, which began Thursday night in Downtown Thomasville.

Thousands of visitors walked along the streets, sampling everything from chicken pitas to alligator to shrimp and grits. There was also entertainment in the Municipal Auditorium, musicians all along the streets and many stores were open for customers and browsers.

While the jolly old elf listened to Christmas wishes from the kids, there were reindeer at the fire station.