The first annual Covington Hollydaze holiday festival Dec. 5-6 came and went with a frenzy of events and activities that left the citizens of Covington looking forward to next year.

“This was the best day of my whole life,” said a boy at the Santa Breakfast, as told by Sandy Sargent, president of the Kiwanis Club of Covington, who greeted the families attending the breakfast at St. John the Baptist Church.

The breakfast was one event of many held during the weekend. Others included crafts at the library, the Fruitcake Hurl, a Tickle Toon Typhoon concert, a Float-in Movie night at the pool, and the main event – the tree-lighting.

Joining the Kiwanis Club in helping with the festival were other area service organizations: The Covington Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club, Tahoma High School Key Club, East Hill Grange and Covington Library.

Kiwanis is deeply grateful to the sponsors that contributed to the success of the event, including Costco, LA Fitness, American Family Insurance Scott Pudwell Agency, Les Schwab, Covington Copy It Mail It, Red Robin and Home Depot. Also making a big contribution to the spirit of the event were the choirs from Crestwood Elementary School, Kentlake High School and the Maranatha Assembly of God Church.

The Covington holiday tree will be brightly lit throughout the holidays in the roundabout north of Fred Meyer. The Kiwanis Club wishes the citizens of Covington a happy and joyful holiday season and asks that you remember those families who are struggling a bit through the holiday season by donating food items or cash contributions to the Maple Valley Food Bank or the Storehouse.

CATHY STEGER