The Christmas Tree on the grounds of the Cayce Municipal Complex was illuminated before a big crowd, Thursday evening, and thousands of Christmas lights were powered up too.

“I think this is the largest turnout ever,” said Cayce Mayor Elise Partin.

Cayce’s 49th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony was sponsored by The Woman’s Club of Cayce, that asked attendees to bring non-perishable food items or canned goods to donate to support the Scooter Scott Project and God’s Helping Hands, as a part of the 23rd Annual Cayce Cares initiative.

Paula Melton Pinner is the President of the Woman’s Club of Cayce and she organized the event.

Woman’s Club of Cayce members served hot chocolate and Santa and Mrs. Claus (Tim and Frances Shealy) greeted wide-eyed children full of Christmas wishes.

A musical ensemble of middle school students from Busbee Creative Arts Academy played Christmas tunes and a Busbee dance troupe performed to yuletide music.

Rev. Tom Wall of Cayce United Methodist Church also spoke, along with Erika Glover of WLTX-TV. The TV station filmed the event.