SAN DIEGO (CNS) - Thousands of people descended on San Diego's Balboa Park Friday night to kick off the 39th annual December Nights holiday festival.
The largest free community festival in the region will include seasonal entertainment, holiday lights and food.
December nights will go from noon to 11 p.m. Saturday.
Mayor Kevin Faulconer and Councilman Todd Gloria took part in an opening ceremony at 6 p.m. and help switch on the lights 15 minutes later.
Admission to park museums are free from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. both Friday and Saturday.
Those planning to attend are encouraged to take public transportation because of the large crowds, while drivers should anticipate congestion in and around Balboa Park.
Free shuttles will run from City College parking lots on 16th Street near B and C Streets, and along Ash Street between Fifth and Sixth avenues.