GRIDLEY, CA (MPG) – Despite the heavy rain and cold temperatures, B Street in Downtown Biggs radiated light and the warmth of the season as it prepared for its annual tree lighting.

The event started at 4 pm on Sunday, December 4th, opening with a street fair and market. Thankfully, the weather cleared long enough for the multitude of vendors to set up – an increase from years past, selling holiday gifts, hot cocoa and more. Guests browsed as they awaited the lighting of the tree at 7pm and enjoyed the many lights and decorations put up by volunteers to make the event spectacular.

Meanwhile, the Ugly Sweater Contest delighted the crowd. As faux snow fell from the upper balcony of the Hotel Colonia, eight contestants who’d donned their favorite over-the-top holiday sweater gathered in front of the historic building to compete for the title of the most awful holiday sweater. Winners were judged by the crowds’ cheers.  First place went to Black Bassett, 2^nd place to Easton Roach, and 3^rd place to Greyson Bond. The title of “most festive” went to Jen Anderson.

Due to the threat of bad weather, the tree lighting was bumped up on the schedule of events from 7:00 pm to directly follow the sweater contest. City Councilman Brian Bassett started the program off, followed by a few community speakers. Moments later, a flip of a switch lit the towering spruce in hundreds of brightly colored lights. The community Christmas tree stood as a beacon in Biggs downtown park among newly revamped Christmas decorations, featuring stylized elf houses, candy canes, and Santa’s sleigh.

Of course, the big man in red was there to take pictures with excited children, and sparkling crowns could be seen throughout the crowd as the Queens of the Miss Butte County Scholarship Program met with guests, along with Ms. Agriculture American Butte County Queens.

The Project Biggs Christmas Tree Lighting and Street Fair put away another successful year in the books.