CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Christmas carols could be heard Tuesday night at the Capitol Complex as the Christmas season got underway with the annual Joyful Night celebration.
The event featured songs from many of the area’s high school and middle school bands, as well as carols sung by the Appalachian Children’s Choir.
“It’s a tremendous honor to play for the governor and the tree lighting, and to get out in front of an audience and crowd like this joined by these other bands from around the state. It’s just a pleasure and truly an outstanding time,” said Poca High School band director Bob Carroll.
Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin and First Lady Joanne Jaeger Tomblin lit the 2015 Christmas tree, which was donated by Ed and Finn Dumire of Randolph County.
“This has become a great tradition for so many West Virginia families. It’s such a great opportunity for everyone to come out and kickoff the Christmas season,” said Tomblin administration Communications Director Chris Stadelman. “If you couldn’t be here tonight, absolutely come see the Christmas tree on the north plaza.”
Many residents came from all over to join in the Christmas cheer; Nick Svingos came all the way from Huntington.
“We came up to the capital to kickoff the holiday season and check out the bands. It’s not every day you get to see bands performing on the Capitol steps. And see the lighting of the Christmas tree,” Svingos said.
Mary Leslie Morton had been a regular at Joyful Night for several years.
“I like this kind of thing. It was a nice night; I’ve come here for many, many years. I like seeing the different holiday celebrations,” she said.
The event also included a special recognition ceremony for the Mountain State’s service men and women, veterans, Gold Star Families and first responders in the Governor’s Reception Room.