There were school student choirs singing Jingle Bell Rock and Winter Wonderland and dancers dressed in Yuletide attire. The City of West Columbia illuminated its Christmas tree Friday evening in front of a large crowd that sipped on hot chocolate as the temperature dipped into the 30s.

West Columbia Mayor Tem Miles talked about the special feeling the season brings and Pastor Dow Welch of Holland Avenue Baptist Church emceed the event. Mrs. Claus read letters from children to Santa and students read their award-winning “What Christmas Means To Me” letters, too.

In addition to the tree lighting, the whole West Columbia City Hall Complex was bright with white lights.