Palmetto State News

Governor Henry McMaster and First Lady Peggy McMaster are set to host a Christmas Open House at the Governor's Mansion in Columbia, South Carolina. The event is scheduled for Monday, December 9, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM and is open to all South Carolinians without the need for reservations.

Attendees will be welcomed by Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus and entertained by singers Trudy Wilson and Rhoda Paschal, with harpist Cayli Boyle providing musical accompaniment. Light refreshments such as hot chocolate, cookies, and candy canes will be available.

The first family encourages guests to bring donations of cat or dog food, litter, or toys for Pawmetto Lifeline. These contributions will be collected at the entrance of the mansion.

The Columbia Garden Club has been responsible for decorating the Governor's Mansion since 1981 and began their work this week. Decorations include Christmas trees from Penland Christmas Tree Farm in York, S.C., poinsettias from Gilbert High School Future Farmers of America, and a gingerbread house replicating Charleston's Pineapple Fountain.

Wreaths throughout the Mansion Complex are crafted by the Horticulture Division of the South Carolina Department of Corrections.

For those interested in exploring more of the mansion during the holiday season, docent-guided tours will be available on December 10-12 and December 17-19 at various morning times. While these tours are free, reservations are required and can be made by calling 803-737-1710 or visiting scgovernorsmansion.org.