Hood River kicked off the holiday season with their annual tree lighting on Saturday at the corner of State and 2nd street. Around 6pm a parade made their way around town with the fire departments trucks decorated in lights, they ended up in front of the tree. At 7pm the tree was lit after a short speech from the mayor wishing everyone happy holidays and safe travels. A surprising amount of people were in attendance as the streets packed in to see the trees magnificent light. Local businesses and groups lined the streets selling or giving away sweet treats and meals like chili and hot chocolate. Store fronts decked out their displays in preparation for judging and created a gorgeous array of lights making long shadows on oak street.

By Finn Peterson