Simpsonville, S.C. — The City of Simpsonville hosted the 2nd Annual Simpsonville Tree Lighting Ceremony at City Hall on December 3rd.
The ceremony began with welcoming remarks by Mayor Paul Shewmaker, and a reading from the Book of Luke by Pastor A. A. Dicks of Mount Zion Church. A Christmas carol sing-along medley was led by keyboard player Steve Eager. Following the carols the Mayor and Miss Teen Simpsonville, Gracen Vaughn, led the crowd in the countdown to the lighting of the City of Simpsonville Christmas Tree. Mayor Shewmaker said the event is the perfect opportunity to remember our shared humanity at the end of a difficult year for all, “The City invites everyone from all backgrounds to join us at City Hall to kick off the Christmas and holiday seasons. Starting the last month of a tough year with fellowship and joy can instill in us a renewed sense of community and common good.” After the lighting, Steve Eager led another round of Christmas caroling. Eager, who also teaches piano in Greenville, said he is glad the City of Simpsonville hosts an annual tree lighting ceremony, “I really feel that people are wanting and needing this kind of thing.”
The Simpsonville Christmas Tree stands 22 feet tall and is topped with a 5 foot Nativity star. At the conclusion of the ceremony the public was invited to partake in free hot chocolate and cookies at Kaffeine Coffee Shop & Roastery, sponsored by Jordan Johnson and Nikki Sword of RE/MAX Results. Also featured at the event was a Letters to Santa table where children dropped off their letters for Santa Claus and received a free treat bag, all sponsored by Sherry Roche of RE/MAX Results.
