Nowhere are the sights and sounds of Christmas more prevalent than in West Columbia.

First, the city is hosting the 14th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting at 6:30 p.m., on Friday, Dec. 7. It’s at West Columbia City Hall, 200 N. 12th Street, West Columbia.

“It’s the city’s formally opening of the Christmas season. And the tree lighting always has the feel of a traditional, old-fashioned Christmas,” said West Columbia Mayor Bobby Horton. “It’s a wonderful community-driven event, with carols from students. And nothing is more exciting than when the city’s tree lights up.”

Horton was at the first tree lighting ceremony. It was his idea to incorporate children into the program and he believes one of the most endearing parts of the event each year is the reading of the “What Christmas Means To Me” essays and poems from West Columbia area elementary students. The winning works are chosen after a contest is held at the schools. “The proud winners get to present their impressions of Christmas before the tree lighting,” said Horton. “I love to see their faces, and their families.”

And written work is not the only highlight.There is a student artwork contest and the winning work of art is featured on the cover of the Tree Lighting ceremony program. In addition to that, the top three entries are displayed on the Art on State wall on the corner of State and Meeting Streets.

“Children are excited about Christmas, said Horton. “And their participation enhances their enthusiasm. And that’s something that is special about the West Columbia’s Tree Lighting ceremony.”

And this year there will be no shortage of children singing. Students from East Point Academy Elementary School Chorus, East Point Academy Middle School Chorus, Riverbank Elementary Chorus, and Grace Christian School String Ensemble will perform holiday classics.

A familiar face will also be back again for this year’s tree lighting. Radio and television personality Joe Pinner will serve as the Master of Ceremonies. The Christmas message will be given by Rev. Kenneth Taylor from Turner Memorial AME Church.

Another tradition is the reception that is held after the tree is illuminated in the New Brookland Room of the West Columbia City Hall. It is always well-attended. It includes refreshments provided by West Columbia restaurants, organizations, and businesses.

Holiday Parade of Lights

West Columbia residents have also grow accustomed to the Greater Cayce – West Columbia Holiday Parade of Lights. It’s Saturday (Dec. 8) at 5:30 p.m. It’s the only local nighttime parade.

Steve Cohen, president of the Greater Cayce-West Columbia Board, has a reminder regarding the parade.

“Remember, the parade begins in Cayce, not West Columbia, like before,” said Cohen. “This year, the route will begin in front of the Cayce Municipal Complex at 1800 12th Street. It ends in West Columbia.”

Cohen also said the parade is one of the most-popular events of the Christmas season. He said registration is limited to 100 entrants, but some participants include three or four vehicles, so the parade has lots to see. West Columbia City Council and some of the city’s departments will be featured in the Parade of Lights.

“We are used to seeing the streets lined with people in droves,” said Cohen. “It’s a highly festive event that has become a staple of the holiday season. The lights at night are a sight to see.”

He also said spectators should show up early on Saturday and be sure to get a spot. Groups of people having parties, and tailgating, are common along the parade route.

West Columbia’s Tree Lighting ceremony and the Parade of Lights are must-see events in West Columbia. They have become warm traditions as a part of this special time of the year. Mark your calendar and make sure you don’t miss them.