Waimea tree-lighting ceremony is Thursday

WAIMEA — Susan Somers of the West Kauai Business and Professional Association said they will have tents during the tree-lighting festival Thursday.

“Last year it rained,” Somers said. “This year, we’re putting up the tents, and it won’t rain.”

The blustery weather creates challenges, but will not stop the lighting ceremonies scheduled from 5:30 p.m. at Hofgaard Park.

“It’s been windy,” said Guy Ishihara of Ishihara Market. who patrolled the parking lot perimeter armed with a cordless drill. “We’re going to work on everything Wednesday night so it will be ready for Thursday.”

The lighting ceremony precedes the annual Waimea Lighted Parade, which is scheduled for Dec. 16 from Waimea Canyon Park parking lot through Waimea town and ending at Hofgaard Park, situated across Kaumualii Highway from Ishihara Market.

The park, and numerous business establishments and residents, illuminate their places to add to the sparkle and glitter of the lighted units in the parade. The festive lighted places are also judged, with results being announced following the parade.

“We’ve got the Waimea High School band playing early,” Somers said. “We’re also doing storytelling and more before the lights go on.”

Kauai Veterans Memorial Hospital joins in the spirit of the season, hosting its lighting ceremonies starting at 5 p.m. fronting the hospital.

“The tents are left over from the Thanksgiving feast,” said Joanna Nishimura, KVMH recreation director. “We’ll keep them up through the lighting ceremony in case it rains.”

Within the corridors of the hospital, departments are working to get their sections decorated in time for the lighting ceremonies.

“That’s enough time to celebrate the hospital and still get down to the park for the tree-lighting festival,” Somers said. “We’ll see you on Thursday.”