Toronto falls over itself for Mariah Carey

Toronto residents are used to waiting in line. That's why no one seemed to mind standing around in front of Hudson's Bay and Saks Fifth Avenue for more than two and half hours before Mariah Carey graced the stage for a free show.

The so-called Queen of Christmas was in town to help the department stores unveil their holiday window displays - which, if you're wondering, feature local and woodland creatures, such as squirrels and raccoons.

Carey's performance diverted the Queen streetcar yesterday evening as thousands gathered in front of the Bay prior to the show. She was supposed to start singing at around 7 p.m., but as per usual, she was late.

Before she came out, clad in a red and hot pink Anna Maier gown, the crowd chanted her name, willing her on to the stage. Eventually, it was show time. But instead of Mariah, we first had to hear from Hudson's Bay execs and Mayor John Tory - some audience members weren't too pleased.

Finally, it was Mariah time and she performed two Yuletide hits, including "All I Want for Christmas Is You." The show finished with fireworks and lots of white, snow-like confetti. The window displays seemed almost like an afterthought.

Here's how die-hard fans and detractors reacted to the whole evening.

Photo by George Pimentel.