On Thursday night, Columbia County residents gathered at Evans Towne Center Park for the annual tree lighting event, a beloved tradition that marks the beginning of the holiday season.
The tree lighting was sponsored by Doctors Hospital of Augusta.
Families and friends bundled up against the chill of the evening to witness the transformation of the park into a winter wonderland, made even more memorable with visits from well-known characters like Santa Claus and the Grinch who Stole Christmas.
As darkness fell, WJBF News Channel 6’s Brandon Dawson took the stage to welcome everyone and lead a countdown to the tree lighting.
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“What a way to kick off the Christmas season,” said Dawson. “We’ve all been through a lot, you know, we had to go through Helene. So I feel like this Christmas hits a little bit different.”
With the help of the audience’s cheers, a large metal tree came to life with lights around 6:30 p.m. Following the initial lighting, the tree began to change colors and designs along to the rhythm of classic Christmas tunes.
Viewer experiences
Clinton Crews and fiance Onika Abrams were determined to make this year’s lighting after missing out on the fun last year.
“I’ve never been to a tree lighting,” said Abrams. “So, I’m super excited to see what it’s like.”
Crews said that the pair love Christmas, and he said that seeing children enjoy the holiday keeps the magic alive for him.
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“I know a lot of adults say Christmas doesn’t feel the same. I don’t feel that way,” he said.
Latoria Brown has been to the tree lighting several times and said that it’s the “holiday feeling” that keeps bringing her back each year.
“Everyone seems so happy,” she said.
She added that she believes Columbia County’s Christmas festivities are a cut above the rest.
“This place here, for Christmas, they do a great job. One of the best,” she said.
Many visitors were children enthusiastic about the festive fanfare, including Olivia Ward who said: “I’m excited about seeing the Christmas tree lighting. It’s really pretty when it lights up and I like all the Christmas lights.”
With her was Emma Ward, who shared her thoughts: “I’m excited for Santa to come and I’m excited about this Christmas tree lighting!”
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More Christmas in the park
Several Christmas events were highlighted on Thursday night.
Evans on Ice, which also takes place at Evans Town Center Park, will be open through Jan. 20. Visit evansonice.com for up to date information.
There will be a movie night in the park on Dec. 7 at 6:15 p.m. featuring a showing of “Arthur Christmas”.
Holiday Sip-n-Shop will be in the park on Dec. 13 from 4-8 p.m., and will feature local vendors.
Christmas lights will be on in the park nightly from 5 to 10 p.m.
