Celebrate joyful night at State Capitol and streaming online
West Virginians are invited to celebrate the start of the holiday season at the State Capitol tonight. The 2024 Joyful Night celebration kicks off at 6 p.m. on the south steps of the West Virginia State Capitol. This annual event, marking the state’s official entry into the holiday season, features a ceremonial tree lighting, a reception, and musical performances by students.
The highlight of this year’s festivities is the lighting of the state Christmas tree, a magnificent 54-foot Norway spruce from Pocahontas County’s Watoga State Park. Governor Jim Justice and First Lady Cathy Justice will illuminate the tree at 6:30 p.m.
The evening will be filled with seasonal tunes performed by school choirs and bands from Woodrow Wilson High School, Nitro High School, and Barboursville Elementary on the Lincoln Plaza’s south side of the Capitol at 6 p.m.
Throughout the Capitol complex, you can admire festive decorations. In the West Rotunda, specially decorated trees will honor Gold Star Mothers, members of the armed forces, and first responders. Additionally, the Red Cross will be present, providing special cards for active-duty military personnel.
At the Culture Center’s Great Hall, visitors can enjoy light refreshments and view the winning ornaments from the First Lady’s West Virginia Student Ornament Competition.
For those who can’t make it to the event, West Virginia Public Broadcasting will be broadcasting the celebration live on their website and the West Virginia Channel.
It’s sure to be a night filled with joy and holiday spirit, so be sure to tune in or join the festivities at the State Capitol!
