It may be a little early for decorations, but the Bridgeville Christmas Tree Festival, held at the Chartiers Room of the Bridgeville Fire Hall Saturday and Sunday, was the perfect place to get in the spirit and kick off the season.

Sponsored by and benefitting the Friends of the Bridgeville Library, the event included a Christmas tree and gingerbread house decorating contest, book fair, bake sale, Chinese auction, and crafts and activities for children.

There were 31 trees entered, nine of which were in the children’s category. There was no entry fee to decorate a tree. Participants purchased tickets for $1 to vote for their favorite trees and houses. Many creative ideas sponsored by local organizations, families, and businesses really showed the personality of the community.  Some of the themes and entries included: The fire department, library, Bridgeville Historical Society, Gettysburg, travel and Barbie. There was also a memoriam tree where you could write the name of a loved one on a white stocking to show your respect.

Raffle and auction prizes included a lottery tree, a huge stuffed animal, Heinz Ward autographed football, original artwork, and a variety of gift baskets. There were also metal ornaments for sale in the lobby by Tom Ballard Designs with military, religious, occupational, and personal interest designs where a portion of the proceeds also benefitted the library.

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