Karin Stanton/Hawaii247.com Contributing Editor

KAILUA-KONA — As the sun set across Kailua Bay, the switch was flipped Friday evening to light up the first community holiday tree in Emma’s Square.

The 16-foot artificial tree, decked out with ukulele and giant colored balls, will twinkle every night this holiday season from 5:30 p.m. until midnight across from the seawall near Hulihee Palace. 

The Holiday Cheer in Kailua Village program, sponsored by the Kailua Village Business Improvement District, also will feature music and entertainment beginning at 4:30 p.m. each Friday and 2 p.m. each Saturday through Dec. 20. 

Pedestrians pause to listen to Hibiscus Jam before the holiday tree lights were switched on Friday evening at Emma's Square on Alii Drive. (Photo by Karin Stanton / Hawaii247.com)

On hand to throw the switch Friday evening were Eric von Platen Luder, KVBID president, Miss Kona Coffee Kuulika Karratti and Miss Aloha Hawaii Kelsey Iyo.

Miss Kona Coffee Kuulika Karratti (left) and Miss Aloha Hawaii Kelsey Iyo pose for pictures Friday evening during the tree lighting festivities. (Photo by Karin Stanton / Hawaii 247.org)

Friday evening’s program also included songs from Hibiscus Jam and Kauwila.

Entertainment for Saturday, Nov. 29 includes the Kealakehe Intermediate School Ukulele & Chorus Group and Lea Lea Na Opio.

Performances throughout December are slated to include: Kona Brass Duo, Big Island School of Music with Michael Allen, Hawaiian Civic Club of Kona, Kuakini, The Merrie Monarchs, and Kahakai Elementary School Concert Band. 

The holiday tree at Emma's Square boasts ukulele, colored balls and floral decorations. (Photo by Karin Stanton / Hawaii247.com)