The West Indian Co. Ltd. will host its annual Christmas Tree Lighting at Havensight Mall on the WICO dock on Dec. 9. This year the festivities will feature the recently released compilation of stories by the students of the Addelita Cancryn Jr. High School, "New Story Time!," in keeping with their theme of a storybook Christmas, according to WICO. “The Holiday Season is one of our favorite times of year. The festive air of anticipation as we count down to Christmas and the New Year has everyone in an upbeat mood,” WICO President and Chief Executive Officer Joseph Boschulte said in a statement.
“Our annual Christmas Tree Lighting is our biggest event each year. We are pleased to provide an opportunity for the public to join us in welcoming and celebrating the holidays with a full compliment of musical entertainment and seasonal treats and cultural traditions.” The festivities will start at 11 a.m. with performances by schools, choirs and bands and community groups. There will be live readings from the featured book, balloon art, face painting and cultural treats, all leading up to Santa’s arrival in time for the Christmas Tree lighting at 6 p.m. and the much anticipated kiddie gift giveaway. Favorite feature characters also will be at the tree lighting to delight the young and the young at heart. Stores will remain open late with special offers for early bird holiday shoppers. To keep spirits festive, the Superior Court Rising Stars Youth Steel Orchestra and Outta Limitz will perform from 6 to 8 p.m. with Cool Session Brass wrapping up the musical package from 8 to 10. Cruise passengers will have a chance to sample V.I. Christmas traditions too: Disney Fantasy will be in port until 4:15 p.m., with Carnival Splendor remaining until 6 p.m. A Storybook Christmas is sponsored by WICO, the Havensight Merchants Assoc. and United Jazz International.
