Vidant Beaufort Hospital will hold its annual Lights of Love Tree Lighting Ceremony on Tuesday, beginning at 6 p.m. in front of the Hospital at 628 E. 12th St. in Washington. The public is cordially invited to attend and refreshments will be served.

The celebration will feature musical entertainment by students from Eastern Elementary School and the St. John’s Church of Christ Men’s Choir and include an award presentation for the annual children’s art contest. Each year, Beaufort County students from kindergarten through fifth grade are invited to participate. Prizes are awarded for first, second and third place from each grade, and one will be selected as Best in Show.

In addition to the tree lighting ceremony, the event will move indoors for a special appearance by Santa Claus! Children will have the opportunity to share their Christmas wishes and have their picture taken with him, free of charge.

Lights of Love was established as a means for members of the community to celebrate or remember a loved one during the holiday season. It has transformed over the years into a year-round project that allows generations of individuals and families to give back to Vidant Beaufort Hospital while commemorating a variety of creative and traditional events.

Donations to Lights of Love are used to fund projects that promote health-care education, improve community wellness, support and enhance patient care and provide amenities that make our hospital more comfortable for patients and visitors. For a minimum tax-deductible contribution of $5 or more, one can honor or remember a special person in their life with a light that will shine on our Lights of Love tree.