City of West Columbia lights its Christmas tree
It was a festive mood, Friday evening as the City of West Columbia held its 17th Annual Tree Lighting ceremony.
Student choruses from Saluda River Academy for the Arts and East Point Academy choruses sang and the East Point Academy dancers performed. Essay Contest winners read their “What Christmas Means to Me” Essays and the winning artwork was announced. Pastor Dow Welch, of Holland Avenue Baptist Church, gave the Christmas message. The event was emceed by WXRY 99.3 FM’s Steve Varholy. (City of West Columbia photos)
Essay winners and artwork winners helped light the tree with Mayor Tem Miles. 
Mrs. Claus read Santa’s responses from the Santa Mailbox at Carraway Park.