The Holiday Festival of Lights kicked off its 25th season Nov. 14 with a grand opening celebration featuring live entertainment, remarks, and fireworks. Plus, the Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission (CCPRC) was proud to present awards for the festival’s own annual Giant Greeting Card and Gingerbread House Competitions. Winning entries in both competitions are on display during the event, which runs nightly through Jan. 1 at James Island County Park.
This year, the Giant Greeting Card Competition received 38 entries from Charleston County student groups in elementary, middle and high school divisions. The winning top three schools in each division, and 4 honorable mention winners, received a trophy and cash award to apply into their school arts program. CCPRC is very pleased to recognize the efforts and creativity of the winning schools:
Elementary School Division:
1st Place: Drayton Hall Elementary
2nd Place: Orange Grove Charter Elementary
3rd Place: North Charleston Creative Arts
Middle School Division:
1st Place: James Island Middle
2nd Place: Thomas Cario Middle
3rd Place: Charleston Collegiate
High School Division:
1st Place School: Charleston School of the Arts
2nd Place: Legacy Christian Homeschoolers
3rd Place: Johns Island High
Honorable Mention:
Gateway Academy
Murray-LaSaine Elementary
Springfield Elementary
East Cooper Montessori Charter
Entries for the annual Holiday Festival of Lights Gingerbread House Competition were judged in three age categories for creativity, craftsmanship, theme, difficulty and appearance. Winners are:
Kit Category - All Ages:
First Place: Emily Harris
Second Place: Andrew Baker
Original Category – Adults:
First Place: Kelly Schmeling
Second Place: Amy Langstone
Original Category – Youth:
First Place: Karly Ripple
Honorable Mention
First Place: Ashley Peterson
Second Place: Parker Williams
Also on site opening night, a young local artist was able to see her idea for a light display come to light. Ten-year-old Jenna, a student at Sullivans Island Elementary School, is the winner of this year’s Light Display Design Contest. Jenna’s drawing of a seal pup inspired a new light display at this year’s festival. The contest is open again this year, and ages 12 and under are invited to submit their ideas for a light display at next year’s festival. Download an entry form at CharlestonCountyParks.com.
The 25th Annual Holiday Festival of Lights is now open nightly through Jan. 1 at James Island County Park and is presented by Boeing and your Charleston County Parks. For more information, including special event dates, hours, admission fees, and more, visit the link below or call 843-795-4386.
