The event, which took place in the parking lot of the Westwood Mall, featured music by Linda Smith Christmas and a performance from the students of Studio Dance Arts in Marquette. Free hot dogs, brats and other refreshments were provided to attendees by Super One Foods and candy was donated by Jet’s Pizza, with the tree being donated by Andra Ziems, Marquette Township secretary and cashier.

“This is a great event every year,” said Marquette Township Manager Jon Kangas. “Lots of fantastic work (has been) done by Media Brew and the Marquette Township Events Committee.”

Santa made a special appearance, giving Rudolph and the gang the night off as he arrived by firetruck. The festivities continued inside the Westwood Mall where Santa posed for photographs and received plenty of Christmas lists from local children.

The evening appeared to take a turn for the worse when the Grinch caused a disruption but his attempt to steal Christmas was foiled by officers from the Marquette County Sheriff’s Department.

Lt. Dave DeRocher of the Marquette County Sheriff’s Department apprehends the Grinch during the Catch the Christmas Spirit tree lighting event Tuesday evening in Marquette Township. (Journal photo by Randy Crouch)

“We were expecting the Grinch to be up to the same old tricks,” said Marquette County Sheriffs Department Lt. Dave DeRocher. “A lot of my friends say its the only arrest I get every year.”