North Augusta Kicks Off Christmas Season with Joyful Tree Lighting Ceremony
This holiday season, North Augusta has officially transformed into a winter wonderland! On the evening of December 3rd, the city gathered at the charming Calhoun Park for the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony, which was as delightful as ever. The spotlight of the night shone brightly on the McGahee siblings—Preston and twins Meredith and Madeline—who were honored to flip the switch that lit up the massive Christmas tree, marking the start of the festive season.
More Festivities Than Ever!
This year’s ceremony brought even more cheer and excitement than previous years. Attendees were treated to a flurry of light displays, a flurry of activity, and joyful performances by local middle school musicians. The atmosphere was enhanced by a sprinkling of artificial snow that brought out the child in everyone, creating a whimsical backdrop for the festivities.
As the tree illuminated Calhoun Park, attendees were filled with anticipation for what was to come. Festive music echoed through the park, performed by the North Augusta Elementary School Choir along with bands from local middle schools, setting the perfect tone for the holiday season. And just when everyone thought it couldn’t get any better, the sweet, smoky aroma from the Boy Scouts roasting marshmallows on an open fire wafted through the air, enticing young and old alike.
Santa’s Arrival and Scavenger Hunt
The real star of the night, Santa Claus, made his grand entrance to the delight of children everywhere. North Augusta Mayor, Briton Williams, shared some seasonal news from Santa, infusing the evening with even more holiday spirit. In a bid to engage families and foster community involvement, Mayor Williams eagerly announced the first-ever scavenger hunt, cleverly presented in the form of riddles.
The hunt was a hit! Residents were invited to search for hidden ornaments around town, with clues posted daily from December 4th to 13th on the city’s website. Those who participated had a chance to win an exclusive prize by bringing their found ornament to the North Augusta Community Center.
Shop Local and Celebrate Together
The city is promoting the “Shop Local” initiative this December, encouraging residents to explore downtown North Augusta. Following the tree lighting, shops opened their doors late into the evening, inviting families to enjoy a cocoa and cookie crawl. Trolleys ran throughout the area, making it easy for everyone to hop from store to store.
The “12 Days of Downtown North Augusta” campaign incentivizes shoppers in a fun way. By simply uploading receipts from participating businesses, shoppers can enter for a chance to win a fabulous prize of $500! It’s an excellent way to support local businesses while celebrating the spirit of the season.
Conclusion
The tree lighting ceremony in North Augusta on December 3rd was not just an event; it was a celebration of community spirit, holiday cheer, and the joy of togetherness. As families celebrate with lights, laughter, and love, it’s clear that the heart of North Augusta beats even stronger during this magical time of year.
So grab your hot chocolate, keep an eye out for those hidden ornaments, and make sure to embrace the festive spirit—because Christmas has officially arrived in North Augusta!
