Saturday marked the unofficial start of the Christmas season in Gilchrist County as the first major Christmas festivities were held.
Bell held its 43rd annual Christmas parade, craft show and lighting.
According to Katie Lovett, Bell Town Councilwoman and organizer of the event, more than 3,500 people attended the parade, which included 45 floats.
Over 1,000 people also attended the town lighting. Over $5,000 worth of gifts were given at the lighting.
Participants in the parade could also enter a float contest in which the top three finishers received cash prizes.
Lancaster K9’s won first place and $100 for putting the Grinch in jail.
United Country Real Estate’s float came in second and won $75.
Loving Hands Daycare finished third and won $50.
The Town of Bell thanks float sponsors Smith Septic and Sgt. Lovey Photography.
Douberly Farms also held its Country Christmas Festival, and Fanning Springs held its annual Parade of Lights with boats.