Editor's note: Marcus D'Angelo was incorrectly identified in an earlier version of this article. The error has been corrected.

The joyful sounds of children laughing and carol singing around Baxter Park Friday night brought the holiday cheer to Medfield as the community came together to officially welcome the holiday season.

Family and friends gathered for MEMO's annual tree lighting ceremony – lighting up the historic park behind the Noon Hill Grill with holiday cheer. Christmas carols were sung as the lights around the park were turned on. The town tree, lit last, shined brightly with its usual red lights and glowing star.

In addition to the traditional offerings the annual holiday event brings – vendors serving hot chocolate, Christmas caroling and children playing – this year's ceremony included a "Joy to the World" singing contest presented by MEMO, which quickly became the main event of the evening.

Young Medfield residents of various ages took the stage to sing a song of their choice and were judged by MEMO's panel. Those performing on stage Friday were deemed "finalists" by MEMO after advancing past the "audition phase" of the contest on Nov. 29.

Young Marcus D'Angelo stole the show with his performance of "I'm Gettin' Nuttin' for Christmas." View the videos above to see the "Joy to the World" performers, including a video of DeAngelis' entire performance.

This was the first year MEMO hosted the "Joy to the World" singing contest and it was an immediate success as many gathered around the stage to watch the performances.

The contest commemorated Medfield’s renowned musician Lowell Mason, 1792-1872, father of music in the schools and composer of the well-known Christmas Carol, “Joy to the World.” Various winners from two categories (soloists and duets) appeared at Friday's event.

MEMO also presented a monetary donation to Cherryl O'Malley, representing the Lowell Mason Foundation, to be used for renovations to the Lowell Mason House on Green Street. A joyful gift received on a joyous evening that brought plenty of holiday cheer to the town.

The lights are on at Baxter Park and the holiday season is officially underway in Medfield.

Log on to Medfield Patch Sunday at 2 p.m. for coverage of Saturday's Holiday Parade, organized by MEMO.