Making the season bright

WAIMEA — The grand Cook Pine at Parker Ranch headquarters lit up the sky Friday night as hundreds of residents congregated at the free annual tree lighting event. HPA Handbell Choir, Na Haumana Ka Ua Paliloa, Parker School Choir and Waimea Elementary Ukulele and Hula Ensemble performed inside while free cocoa and cookies were provided on the front lawn outside.

The tradition was started by Parker Ranch owner Richard Smart in 1962. The now 165-foot tree was planted prior to 1879.

Over at Parker School, a 150-foot Cook Pine is lit each holiday season. It can be seen from miles away from different parts of town.