MOBILE, Ala. – It’s beginning to look a lot like the holidays at USA Health Children’s & Women’s Hospital. Patients and staff celebrated the joy and wonder of the season with a tree lighting and the official opening of the holiday tree trail on Monday, Dec. 2.

In addition to lighting a 50-foot-tall tree, the event featured holiday karaoke and special visits from Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the Grinch to the delight of patients, staff and their families.

After a countdown, patient Kayden King officially helped “light” the tree that is decorated in shades of silver and blue.

In the days leading up to Thanksgiving, members of the grounds crew meticulously placed red and white Santa hats on more than 50 life-size statues in the Geri Moulton Children’s Park. The hats typically remain in place through New Year’s Day.

Inside the hospital lobby, another towering tree features whimsical candy confections complete with giant macarons and other treats.

Hospital staff members, led by the Mapp Child and Family Life Program, coordinated the special evening for young patients, their families, and caregivers to help normalize the hospital environment. Research shows that celebrations such as the tree-lighting often lead to better health outcomes for patients.

“Just because you are in the hospital doesn’t mean you can’t have your photo with Santa,” said Kim Thompson-Yates, who coordinates the Mapp Child and Family Life Program. “We try to make sure our patients and their families maintain as many traditions as possible while they are here, including holiday parties and visits with special guests, to help ensure their experience is as positive as we can.”