JOHNSTON - Much to the surprise of some who had thought the town of Johnston was not having a Christmas tree this year, six trees were actually lit and other town lights came to life at the press of a button Monday night.

The Annual Johnston Community Christmas Lighting Ceremony, presented by the Johnston Development Corporation, was held at the Municipal Parking Lot in the center of town. The lighting officially ushered in the Christmas season for the town of Johnston.

The lighting followed a program inside the warehouse which consisted of a welcome by Dean Campbell, chairman of the Development Corporation; the Christmas Story, presented by Dr. Mary Rice-Crenshaw, superintendent of the Edgefield County School District; and music by the Johnston First Baptist Toner Bell Choir and the Johnston Elementary School Chorus.

Then, everyone proceeded outside where three Christmas trees were lit on each side of the Town Mural and other town lights as well.

Campbell said the changes this year were actually a part of bigger plans for the future.

“The Development Corporation decided to try something different this year,” he said. “Our goal is to eventually have the whole mural lit up with Christmas lights.”

The lights were brought to life by Johnston Elementary School Principal Bruce Lee and Assistant Principal Kippy Kelly, as well as a select group of

Johnston Elementary School students chosen for their exemplary behavior in school activities.

The event concluded with a Sing-A-Long of Christmas carols, led by Debra Aston, and consisting of “Jingle Bells,” “Joy to the World,” “Silent Night,” and “We Wish You a Merry Christmas.”