SML Tree Lighting and Holiday Event

The Willard Companies is pleased to announce Smith Mountain Lake’s Fourth Annual Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony at Westlake Towne Center on Thursday, December 2, 2010 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.

The companies are also partnering with “We Care of Franklin County” for a holiday toy drive during the event. The first 150 individuals who donate a new, unwrapped toy to “We Care of Franklin County” will be given a complimentary ticket to a special showing of “Miracle on 34th Street” at Westlake Cinema. The holiday classic is scheduled to begin at 7:15 p.m. following the event. Collection boxes will be located inside the retail stores during the event and movie vouchers can be picked up after toy donation. Tickets are not available for purchase.

In addition to the tree lighting and toy drive, several other festive events will take place including holiday photo opportunities with Santa Claus as well as horse and carriage rides sponsored by Kroger. Live entertainment will include a radio remote, holiday concert featuring the Smith Mountain Lake Harmeneers and a performance by two local elementary school choirs. Also, Blue Ridge Pets R.E.A.D. will also be at Westlake Library during the event for children to read Christmas stories to service animals. There will also be an antique car show at the Kroger Fuel Center during the event. Participating Towne Center businesses will be offering previews to exclusive holiday gifts while serving refreshments including Kroger, Westlake Library, Haywood’s Jewelers, Westlake Salon & Spa and Cottage Gate. Also participating at the event are Carilion Clinic and Smith Mountain Building Supply. All events will take place in front of Westlake Library.

The Douglas-fir holiday tree, picked from Joe’s Tree Farm in Craig County, will stand approximately 20’ tall. The tree will be centrally located at the retail shopping center and stand in front of Westlake Library at Westlake Towne Center.

According to Christopher Finley, Director of Marketing and Communications for The Willard Companies, “We are very excited to continue offering this wonderful forum for the community to come together and celebrate the spirit of the holiday season while at the same time collecting toy donations for a worthy cause.”