SOUTH CONGAREE, S.C. — In the town of South Congaree sits a giant evergreen tree that's a permanent fixture.
But every December, those branches get a new pop of color with lights of red, green and white.
"Christmas is about joy and love and giving to others and this is one way our town can give back to our community, is by having events like this," Mayor Cindy Campbell said.
Campbell said the tree lighting has been a special tradition for roughly 30 years.
"We have a real tree that is one of the biggest trees and it's just awesome to ride by at night, in the early morning and see the lights lit up, it warms your heart and your soul, it's wonderful," Campbell said.
Every year there's something new. Last year, it was a food truck. This year, there are two of them.
The night included remarks from Rep. Joe Wilson, local pastors and council members, dancing, and singing.
"My performance was about Frosty the Snowman," local dancer Jordyn Murray said.
Kids said they loved seeing Santa and celebrating the holiday with their families.
"(It's) exciting," dancer Gabi Pedroza said.
Now, the countdown is on for next year.
