GULF SHORES, Ala. — The city of Gulf Shores kicks off the holiday season today with the 28th annual Lighting of the Christmas Tree at 6 p.m. at the Erie H. Meyer Civic Center, located on the corner of West 19th Avenue and West 2nd Street.

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

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

Her grandparents are David and Lisa Peleschak of Gulf Shores, 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 Leigh Martin is the daughter of Chris and Amanda Martin. 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. Hannah enjoys riding her bike, dancing and playing “dress-up”. 

Watch Malarie and Hannah light the tree and then enjoy refreshments and entertainment 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.