A group of local and state lawmakers say they are not about to let the green go dark this holiday season.
COLUMBIA (WACH) -- A group of elected officials are working to save a holiday tradition, after organizers of the annual Carolighting ceremony cancelled this year’s event.
The problem had become a lack of manpower, according to Rep. Rick Quinn of Lexington County.
Quinn is one of a dozen politicians who want to keep the tradition alive.
“This is not a government takeover of Christmas,” says Quinn. "We are not looking to spend tax dollars. We want to help kids learn about volunteerism and helping the community as part of the Christmas celebration.”
The Columbia Breakfast Optimist Club and the Columbia Garden Club will still provide the Christmas tree and decorations.
A number of area choirs have offered to perform and though it won’t be the same, says Quinn, it will have some of the features of the annual event.
Officials will meet Friday to finalize plans for the Carolighting, which will take place on the first Sunday after Thanksgiving.