WICO Celebrates Its 32nd Annual Christmas Tree Lighting

ST. THOMAS — The West Indian Company, Limited will host its 32nd annual Christmas Tree Lighting from 12 noon to 10 p.m. on Wednesday, December 7 at the West Indian Company dock, WICO announced Monday.

This year’s festivities reprises many of the old favorites long enjoyed by the locals and visitors alike. In keeping with WICO’s tradition of showcasing our talented youth musicians, we will be featuring performances from the award-winning Eudora Kean High School Marching Band, the CAHS Marching Band and the Rising Stars Youth Steel Orchestra, according to the release. The musical treat will be capped off with the rousing sounds of crowd favorite Cool Session Brass. This musical holiday card begins at 5:00 p.m., with Cool Session Brass taking center stage at 7:00 p.m.

“We work hard all year long and love the opportunity to take a pause at the holidays to open our doors to the community, bringing joy and cheer to the people we work hard to serve all year long. Just witnessing, the happiness of not just the young but also of the not so young, of family and friends meeting to share this experience, to share love and selfless giving evident from the gift shopping, makes our hearts glad. The laughter and chatter that reverberate, giving competition to the music, always serve to remind me that this togetherness is the backbone of our community,” said Joseph Boschulte, President and CEO of the West Indian Company, Limited.

The daylong community festivities begin at 12 noon with an all-day mini Christmas Village. Adults can partake in local culinary and cultural treats as well as get a jump on some holiday shopping at the Havensight Mall.

The young and young at heart can anticipate Santa’s 32nd visit to this special event at 6p.m., when he arrives to light the fabulous 20 foot Christmas tree, before the always beloved Santa toy give-away to all good girls and boys. Kiddies can also enjoy face painting, balloon art and a really cool picture taking booth.

The Aida Vita will be in port until 4:00 p.m.; the Disney Fantasy until 4:15 p.m., and the Royal Princess pushes off at 10:00 pm. WICO is pleased to offer our cruise guests an opportunity to experience a bit of our special island Christmas.

“WICO is proud to be celebrating our 104th year of serving the Virgin Islands and being an integral part of the territory’s economic success. We are thankful that our annual Christmas Tree Lighting continues to be a beacon, welcoming one and all, calling everyone to create new memories and relive the old ones with family and friends… with us. Merry Christmas to All, from the WICO family – The Board, the Management and Staff, and from me,” Mr. Boschulte said.