It’s a sign that the holiday season is ready to begin. The annual Christmas tree lighting will be held Friday in Downtown Jacksonville.

The 26th annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony will begin at 7 p.m. at the Landing’s courtyard.

The 56-foot tall energy efficient tree will feature more than 78,000 L.E.D lights and more than 200 ornaments. The tree is also programmed to perform a 10-minute, synchronized light show set to various holiday songs.  The light shows will run through New Year’s Eve.

Jaguars Aaron Ross will light the tree along with his wife, Olympic Gold Medalist Sanya Richards-Ross.

The Courtyard at the Landing will be standing room only, organizers ask the public not to bring chairs.