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HomeSource PicksWICO to Hold 32nd Annual Christmas Tree Lighting on Dec. 7

WICO to Hold 32nd Annual Christmas Tree Lighting on Dec. 7

The West Indian Company Ltd. (WICO) will host its 32nd annual Christmas Tree Lighting from noon to 10 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 7, at WICO Dock.

This year’s festivities reprise many of the old favorites long enjoyed by the locals and visitors. In keeping with WICO’s tradition of showcasing talented youth musicians, it will feature performances by the award-winning Eudora Kean High School Marching Band, the CAHS Marching Band and the Rising Stars Youth Steel Orchestra. This musical treat will be capped off with the rousing sounds of crowd favorite Cool Session Brass. This musical holiday card will begin at 5 p.m., and Cool Session Brass will take center stage at 7 p.m.

“We work hard all year long and love the opportunity to take a pause at the holidays to open our doors to the community, bringing joy and cheer to the people we work hard to serve all year long. Just witnessing, the happiness of not just the young but also of the not so young, of family and friends meeting to share this experience, to share love and selfless giving evident from the gift shopping, makes our hearts glad. The laughter and chatter that reverberate, giving competition to the music, always serve to remind me that this togetherness is the backbone of our community,” said Joseph Boschulte, president and CEO of the WICO.

The day-long community festivities will begin at noon with an all-day mini Christmas Village. Adults can partake in local culinary and cultural treats as well as get a jump on some holiday shopping at the Havensight Mall.

The young and young at heart can anticipate Santa’s 32nd visit to this special event at 6 p.m. when he arrives to light the fabulous 20-foot Christmas tree just before the Santa toy give-away to all good girls and boys. Kiddies can also enjoy face painting, balloon art and a very cool picture-taking booth.

The Aida Vita will be in port until 4 p.m.; the Disney Fantasy will port until 4:15 p.m.; the Royal Princess will push off at 10 p.m. WICO is pleased to offer its cruise guests an opportunity to experience a bit of special island Christmas.

“WICO is proud to be celebrating our 104th year of serving the Virgin Islands and being an integral part of the territory’s economic success. We are thankful that our annual Christmas Tree Lighting continues to be a beacon, welcoming one and all, calling everyone to create new memories and relive the old ones with family and friends… with us. Merry Christmas to all, from the WICO family – the board, the management and staff — and from me,” said Boschulte.

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