Photos and Story by Terry Ward and West Metro News
The City of West Columbia officially kicked off the Christmas season Friday night with an evening of music, community spirit, and holiday traditions during its 21st Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony.
Winners of the elementary school “What Christmas Means to Me” essay contest read their winning entries, while students’ artwork from the contest was displayed around West Columbia City Hall.
The program featured Christmas carols, greetings from Master of Ceremonies Pastor Dow Welsh of Holland Avenue Baptist Church, and special readings from Mrs. Claus. Students from East Point Academy and Northside Middle School performed holiday songs, and a brass ensemble from Northside filled the air with Christmas music.
Despite damp and threatening weather, city staff set up heated tents to keep attendees comfortable. Guests enjoyed hot chocolate and cookies throughout the evening.
Following the music and festivities, and a seasonal message delivered by Welsh, the ceremonial switch was flipped to light the City of West Columbia’s Christmas tree, with help from Mayor Tem Miles and the student essay and art contest winners.
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