The shining tin stars are stretched out above the cobblestone streets. The fairy lights hang from the trees, and the poinsettias fill the garden. Storefronts are decked in holiday apparel.

And tonight, the community Christmas tree was lit amid a splendid fireworks display.

Feliz Navidad, from San Miguel de Allende.

The holiday season has officially begun.

The public square in front of the tree and the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel was crammed full of holiday revelers, but there was none of the tension that large crowds often bring. These were fathers with children on their shoulders, mothers and grandmothers with youngsters in hand, laughing teens, curious expats, and seniors with canes remembering scores of holiday trees gone by.

There were smiles — so many smiles — everywhere tonight.

Children performed on the little stage. And Santa with his retinue of angels, elves and wooden soldiers filled out the pageantry.

Hundreds lined up after the lighting for free beverages and tamales.

Probably a million pictures of the fireworks were taken. I contributed my share.

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There was even time to sit at a cafe table with dear friends and discuss the recent performance of Swan Lake by the Ukrainian National Ballet and past lectures on Plato and on the benefits of eating beef. And to share dinner at El Correo restaurant with a whole other set of friends.

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How blessed is this season? How blessed am I to live here?

Merry Christmas! ¡Feliz Navidad!

I hope you enjoy these photos. Click on any to expand, and please feel free to share with your friends!

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