Long County celebrated its annual tree-lighting ceremony Saturday at the Well Pavilion. It was sponsored by the Long County Chamber of Commerce.

The night began when Chamber President Kadee Dasher welcomed those in attendance. Next, A New Beginning Church Pastor Tom Gardner offered a prayer. Dasher then led the crowd of about 100 in counting down from 10 as the lights on the community Christmas tree were lit. Gardner then told the story of Christmas and urged everyone to remember that the primary reason to celebrate Christmas is to honor Jesus’ birth. Gardner then blessed the food, and everyone enjoyed candy, cupcakes, cookies and hot chocolate.

As the crowd ate and admired the decorations, members of the Long County High School Band played Christmas carols. Children took turns telling Santa Claus what they wanted for Christmas and posing for photos with him and his wife, Mrs. Claus.

“This is an awesome turnout. I’m very, very happy with the number the number of people that came out to night,” Dasher said.

She also thanked several people and organizations that helped make the night possible. The event was planned and organized by The County Line Barn (Karen and Ricky Waters); and the tree was donated and decorated by Beverly and Wesley Johnson.

Dasher also said she appreciates the hard work that the crews from the city of Ludowici do in preparing and cleaning of the pavilion.

Altamaha Federal Credit Union, The Heritage Bank, Kadee’s Korner, The Ludowici Bank, Ann and Jimmy Parker, George and Francis Smith, and Tim Works sponsored the tree lighting.