The Third Annual Star Valley Festival of Trees and Gingerbread House Contest is opening this weekend, December 5-6 in the south extension building of the Lincoln County Fairgrounds. Doors will be open to guests from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. both days. Admission is only $1.

“Our pride in this community continues to grow,” said Patricia Naumoff, Festival Committee Chairman. “This event is a true reflection of the generosity, talent, and unity that make Star Valley such a special place to call home.”

Continued expansion of the festival now includes live entertainment throughout the event and a new cookie decorating class. Guests can still enjoy viewing the festival trees and the Gingerbread House Contest entries.

Registration to enter the Gingerbread House Contest closed on November 25, but the community is welcome and encouraged to visit the festival and view all the gingerbread goodness that members of the community are creating to submit for the event. Judging of the entries will take place Friday morning before doors open. Judges for the contest are Mayors Jeff Jensen, Devin Simpson and Eric Green.

Visit Santa and Mrs. Claus both days from 4-8 p.m. or enjoy breakfast with them on Saturday morning at 9 a.m. Tickets are available through the Star Valley Festival of Trees Facebook page. Seats are limited, so get your tickets soon.

Guests of all ages are invited to decorate beautiful Christmas cookies in the decorating classes at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. on Friday. Register through the Facebook page.

The Christmas Café, open daily from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., will offer delicious soup from Artisan Chef Maggie. Live entertainment throughout the event is hosted by Upstream Entertainment with Joanie & Rich as DJ and MC. The entertainment schedule features Christmas line dancing with Tina White from Morning Movement, Christmas karaoke, the Knocked & Loaded 4H Club Choir, the Holy Family Catholic Church Choir, Cheers by Stars Gymnastics, Morning Movement line dancers from Etna and Christmas carols by Olivia Burham.

“Every volunteer, performer, sponsor, and family who participates helps create a tradition rooted in kindness, service, and holiday spirit,” said Naumoff.  “We are deeply grateful for the continued support that allows this celebration to shine brighter each year.”