PICKENS — Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative will observe the unofficial kickoff of the Christmas season in the Pickens area with its annual tree-lighting ceremony next week.

A tradition of more than 30 years, lighting of the giant evergreen on the cooperative’s front lawn at its West Main Street office is set for Nov. 26.

The program will begin at 5:15 p.m. with an ensemble of students from A.R. Lewis Elementary School performing Christmas songs. East Pickens Baptist Church pastor the Rev. Jamie Duncan will then bring a brief Christmas message before South Carolina Teacher of the Year Darleen Sutton presses the button that will energize the tree’s many colorful lights.

At the conclusion of the program, Christmas cookies, hot chocolate and cider will be served to all attendees. The public is cordially invited to come and be a part of the holiday event.