The Jackson and Lyles families joined in the celebration Friday evening by posing with Santa. Front, from left, Bineta Jackson, Nathan Jackson, Andrew Lyles. Back, from left, Ernest Lyles, Eli Jackson, Milan Lyles, Imani Lyles and Princess Lyles.

Christmas in Shepherdstown kicked off Friday evening as hundreds gathered outside McMurran Hall for the annual lighting of the town’s Christmas tree.

A warming bonfire was a gathering place along the street just outside McMurran Hall. Members of the Shepherdstown Fire Department monitored the fire. Their duties for the evening also included ushering in the arrival of the night’s biggest guest, Santa Claus.

Prior to Santa’s arrival on the back of the fire truck, Mrs. Claus, Shepherdstown resident Judy Shepherd, read “The Night Before Christmas” and the story of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” to an audience of children and parents.

As Shepherd shared the story of Whoville and the attempts of The Grinch to stop Christmas from coming, the Grinch himself, along with a cast of Whoville residents acted out the story.

Shepherdstown’s Mayor, Jim Auxer, welcomed all to the festivities.

“We’re here to enjoy the community of Shepherdstown and celebrate our love of Shepherdstown,” Auxer said. “Shepherdstown always puts its best foot forward, and tonight shows we’re proud of our community.”

After all the stories and speeches, the important thing was for all the children to patiently wait to meet with Santa to tell their Christmas wishes. Every child had an opportunity to visit and then received a treat from Santa.

The town continues it’s celebration with the town parade on Dec. 3 at 10 a.m as well as with a variety of other activities.