The Kreidersville Covered Bridge Association sponsored a beautiful, folksy holiday tree-lighting ceremony Dec. 9 at Covered Bridge Park.

Association leaders and event volunteers included Mary Austin, Chris Roth and Darlene Brotzman.

Festivity highlights included joyous holiday singing, led by several young volunteer singers whose sweet sounds prompted many attendees to sing along. The child singers included Audra Bunda, Chloe Martin, Taylor Schaffer and Crew Martin.

A large bonfire was lit and generated a magnet effect on those present, as they drifted toward the fire as it grew and provided warmth. The fire stimulated a sense of community for attendees.

The holiday tree was a natural, uncut evergreen growing beside the gazebo on the grounds along Covered Bridge Road. Attendees cheered and clapped as the multicolored lights were turned on.

There was hot chocolate, cookies and even vegan sweets available for those to take on a donation basis. A small basket raffle and a small decorated tree for monetary bids were there to raise some funds for the association.

A number of people attended with their dogs of many sizes. It seemed every dog was wagging his or her tail and looked happy and content.

For the many kids present, the highlight of the evening was when they heard bells ringing in the covered bridge. As the bells sounded louder, Santa appeared, walking through the covered bridge. The kids waiting for Santa spontaneously broke out in a chant, “Santa, Santa, Santa...”

Santa sat on a bench that allowed the kids to sit beside him in the shadow of the covered bridge as he asked them what they wanted for Christmas. Everyone was thrilled.

It was a delightful, unique experience for families, children, the volunteers who worked the event and even for the dogs in attendance.