GULF SHORES, Ala. — The city of Gulf Shores kicks off the holiday season on Thursday, Dec. 4, with the 28th annual lighting of the Christmas tree at 6 p.m. at the Erie H. Meyer Civic Center, corner of West 19th Avenue and West Second Street.

This year’s tree lighters are two beautiful 6-year-old ladies, Malarie Brooke Taylor and Hannah Leigh Martin.

A first grade student at Foley Elementary, Malarie is the daughter of Frankie and Tori Taylor.

Her grandparents are David and Lisa Peleschak (city of Gulf Shores maintenance supervisor and economic development assistant), Jimmy and Kathy Rush of Gulf Shores and Carol Taylor of Fairhope.

Her aunt, Brigette Reynolds, is the program coordinator at the Bodenhamer Center.

Malarie is an honor student and a Daisy Scout. She loves sports, slumber parties and riding her bike.

She takes good care of her cat and two dogs and likes to listen to music and attend concerts.

Hannah is the daughter of Chris and Amanda Martin. Chris is a Gulf Shores police officer and Amanda teaches at First Baptist Church in Gulf Shores.

Hannah attends Gulf Shores Elementary, and likes to go to the beach and to church.

She has a mini dachshund named Max and likes horses, too.

Hannah enjoys riding her bike, dancing and playing “dress-up.”

Watch Malarie and Hannah light the tree and then enjoy the free refreshments and entertainment that follow at the Civic Center, Museum, Library, David L. Bodenhamer Recreation Center and South Baldwin Community Theater until 8 p.m.

Santa will visit with children on the Civic Center front portico where parents can take their picture.

See the new lights and holiday decor on the entire municipal complex along Clubhouse Drive and West 19th Avenue, from West First Avenue to West Second Street.

Hundreds of thousands of energy-efficient LED bulbs will sparkle from massive greenery swags and festive lawn scenes.

The Special Events Division of the city of Gulf Shores has been working hard to coordinate this evening of celebration. Come one and all to enjoy this community event.

For more information, call 968-1172.