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 Tuesday, Nov. 25.

This year’s program will begin at 5:15 p.m. An ensemble of students from A. R. Lewis Elementary School will perform some Christmas songs. The pastor of East Pickens Baptist Church, Reverend Jamie Duncan, will then bring a brief Christmas message. Rounding out the evening, South Carolina’s reigning Teacher of the Year, Darleen Sutton, will press 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.