Charleston Tree Lighting 2015

(below) Making friends at the tree lighting

Before sunset, this is what the big tree in Marion Square looks like when you stand inside it:

Decorations on the smaller trees in the square, made by schoolchildren:

Shiny December magnolia leaves:

Tree topper on one of the small trees:

Santa has arrived! This was our Mayor's (right of Santa holding book) last time to do the on stage festivities, as he is retiring and a new Mayor has just been elected.

On the count of "Three!".......Santa lit the tree! Everybody cheers. The kids love this part.

Pretty palm tree, the Francis Marion Hotel in the background

Marion Square's fountain and pretty city lights

"Banjo Girl". We don't know her name, but she is often singing for tips downtown. I love banjo music!

Would you walk down this prettily lit alley?

An interesting sight between two larger downtown buildings:

Loved how the lighting looked on the church on the other side of the square:

A closer look:

Is was a fun and festive evening!