Several events make up the 18th Annual Merry Berry Christmas Festival at Bilberry Park Community Center.

The Lighting Ceremony is set for Thursday, December 4, at 6 p.m. Christmas lights will be turned on, marking the beginning of the festival. The program features a guest speaker, and refreshments will be served afterward. It's free and open to the public.

Friday, December 5, is the Merry Berry Pageant, open to students in elementary, middle and high school. Contestants will be judged in both formal and casual attire, modeling and interviewing. Today is the deadline to enter.

The deadline to enter two other contests has been extended to Monday, December 8. The "What Christmas Means to Me" essay contest is open to children ages 6 to 17. A Spelling Bee, which will be held December 13 at 11 a.m., is open to students in grades 1 through 12.

The Merry Berry Festival runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, December 13, at Bilberry Park, located at 1902 Alabama Ave. It features a visit from Santa, music, games, arts and crafts, and refreshments. All events are free and open to the public.

 

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