FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
To: News Media
From: Bamberg County Administration
Date: December 4, 2023
Re: Bamberg Gets in Holiday Spirit with Annual Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting
Bamberg, South Carolina (December 2023) – On Sunday, December 3, Bamberg County Council was delighted to participate in the City of Bamberg’s annual Christmas Parade followed by the second Tree Lighting Ceremony at Veterans Park.
Prior to the tree lighting, the afternoon was filled with Christmas magic in every nook and corner of Bamberg, SC. Local organizations, schools, and community leaders led the parade as children frolicked around the tree, eagerly awaiting the arrival of that jolly, old elf Saint Nicholas. As dusk began to settle in, attendees experienced a uniquely Bambergesque “snowfall.” Glistening bubbles filled the air, demonstrating that despite the 70-degree temperature, a winter wonderland comes in many forms. In addition to the kaleidoscope and cacophony of holiday cheer, the entire area was filled with tantalizing fragrances of BBQ, fried chicken, cotton candy, and other scrumptious treats provided by several food vendors. After fulfilling his parade duties, Santa Claus mingled with the crowd, posing for photographs, giving candy to all good boys and girls regardless of their age, and spreading copious amounts of Christmas cheer.
Mayor Nancy Foster welcomed everyone and acknowledged the present City Council leaders, which included Mayor Pro Tem Bobbi Bunch and City Council members Corey Ramsey, Willie Staley, Ken Ahlin, and Alan Sunday. Foster gave special recognition to Bamberg County Council for making the beautiful venue and tree a reality, stating, “We are truly blessed to have this partnership.” Bamberg County Council Chairman Dr. Jonathan Goodman, County Council members Larry Haynes, Spencer Donaldson, and Sharon Hammond as well as County Administrator Joey Preston were also in attendance.
Following greetings from Bamberg City and County representatives, Bamberg City Councilman Corey Ramsey gave the invocation, encouraging the audience to understand and acknowledge “the gift of the Son of Man as the reason for the season.” After the prayer, Mayor Foster introduced and welcomed Denmark native, songwriter, and performer Mac Davis (Millen) who read “The Christmas Story.” Ever the educator, Chairman Goodman then provided a brief history lesson about the first strand of electrical Christmas tree lights that were displayed by Thomas Edison’s friend and business partner Edward H. Johnson in 1882. Mr. Davis further entertained the audience by performing various Christmas carols, including “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer,” a Bamberg version of “Christmas in Dixie,” and “Silent Night.”
After much anticipation, members of the Bamberg-Ehrhardt Track Team were given the distinct honor of officially lighting the 2023 Bamberg Christmas tree. All present, especially the youngsters, were in awe of the beautiful 26-foot tree, which features a 6-foot topper, over 1500 LED lights, and 550 shatterproof ornaments. Administrator Joey Preston said it will not only serve as a reminder of the “true glow of Christmas, which is our abiding faith and love of God,” but is also energy-efficient and cost-effective.
Councilman Ramsey closed out the festivities in prayer. It was a beautiful day in Bamberg, SC and provided the perfect opportunity for Bamberg County citizens to fellowship, celebrate, and take a moment to pause while expressing gratitude for the many blessings of 2023, including the completion of the Ed Darnell Law Enforcement Center, Veterans Park, the Veterans Affairs Office, the Health Department, and the approval for federal water and broadband grants.
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For more information on this press release, email info@bambergcounty.sc.gov.