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Lights by the water

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Matthew Davis
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  As the cold, crisp air fills the night at Swan Lake Iris Gardens, a crowd gathers by a stage. Sumter Mayor Joseph McElveen and 20th Fighter Wing Commander Col. Joseph Guastella, along with members of the Sumter community gather to announce the events. 

Swan Lake and the Sumter community host a lighting ceremony annually at Swan Lake during the winter holidays. This year begins with Master Sgt. John Kennedy singing the national anthem, while the Shaw AFB Honor Guard posts the colors. 

The Rev. Charles Clanton of the First Baptist Church of Sumter gives the invocation followed by choirs from Alice Drive Elementary School and Crestwood High School. The mood is set for a wonderful holiday evening. 

Many organizations helped organize and fund the 30th annual Fantasy of Lights, most notably the Pilot Club of Sumter and Council of Garden Clubs. 

"Fantasy of Lights is a real tradition in Sumter," Mayor McElveen said. "There are over a million lights and it's growing every year." 

The Sumter community makes many donations to keep this holiday tradition going. As the choirs come to a close, an anxious crowd awaits the countdown to the lights. Mayor McElveen and Colonel Guastella rise, and ready the light switch. 

"This is absolutely my favorite time of year," Colonel Guastella said. "This is a fantastic opportunity. I can't think of a better place to spend Dec. 1." 

The mayor gives the countdown and with the flick of the switch Iris Gardens erupts in a burst of lights and color. From Spiderman and Hannah Montana to gingerbread man lights, this was a show for all ages. The crowd roared with excitement and families set out to embrace this seasonal treat. 

"Your soul has to be fed as much as your body,"said Mary Hinson, Fantasy of Lights program chair. 

The Iris Gardens will glow nightly until Dec. 31. Families and friends stroll the trails while taking in the lights and sounds of a heartwarming holiday experience.