Cherry Hill is once again shimmering with the lights of the Magic Tree. Continuing an annual tradition, guests gathered in the Village of Cherry Hill in west Columbia for the tree lighting ceremony on Thursday night.

Children’s voices filled the park with a rendition of “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” performed by the Paxton Keeley Elementary School Comet Choir as the lights turned on for the season.

Guests could enjoy activities including face painting and balloon animals.

After the tree was lit, families and friends gathered around the tree to enjoy its shining lights and take photos. Around the square, guests could enjoy food trucks and pop-up tents with local vendors.

The Magic Tree has been a holiday tradition in Columbia since it was started in 1995 by Will Treelighter. To accommodate the growing crowds, the magic tree moved to the Village of Cherry Hill.

Last year, the original Cherry Hill Magic Tree was retired as it was losing its shape. The tree was replaced by a younger tree, which had been planted eight years prior.

Inspired by the new tree continuing the legacy of the nearby older tree, festival coordinator Krista Kippenberger wrote and published a children’s book titled “The Littlest Magic Tree.” The new tree will be featured again in this year’s festival.

The Magic Tree will remain lit from 5 to 10 p.m. every night until Jan. 6. The tree is free and accessible to the public.

Cherry Hill Magic Tree lights up for holiday season