The Rotary Club of Grand Cayman welcomed the upcoming holiday season with their 58th annual Christmas tree-lighting ceremony, held in Heroes Square on Monday.
The event also featured steel pan music, singing, dancing and Christmas carols.
Performers included the UCCI steel band, Montessori by the Sea school, singer Colindra-Rodericka, Cayman Youth Choir, Centre Pointe Dance Studio, Rotary choir, and UCCI choir.
“Please don’t forget that tradition of spending time with the ones that you love, spending time with your friends and your family, because no one is guaranteed tomorrow, and it’s so important that we do spend time with those that we love,” said Deputy Governor Franz Manderson, who offered Christmas greetings to the audience.
He shared fond memories of his childhood, encouraged people to remember the traditions of Cayman Christmas, to give to those in need during this holiday season, and to be mindful about eating healthy.
Manderson, an honorary Rotarian, thanked the club. “They do a lot of work, sometimes behind the scenes. They’ve done that for many years. Their selfless service is the reason why we can sometimes enjoy some of the things we do here in our beloved islands,” he said.
Past Rotary president Alan Roffey was the master of ceremonies. Governor Jane Owen, who will be marking her first Christmas in Cayman, lit the tree, accompanied by Rotary president Chris Bailey.
The evening ended with the arrival of Santa Claus, who brought a few gifts for the children, and took photos with them.
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Observing from my position as MC, I estimated at least 250 people in attendance.
The club produced 175 song sheets. They were all handed out and were being shared between couples and families.