A Hackberry High School student committee, under the direction of school librarian Kathy Helmer, is taking the lead this year in planning the 3rd Annual Hackberry Holiday Festival–an event originally created by Cameron LNG that has become a new tradition of the holiday season in Hackberry.

“This event will be focused on acknowledging and celebrating the richness of this community and people who live here,” announced Kelly Prasser, Sempra Energy’s Community Relations manager.“We are thrilled to have the students’ participation in helping to shape this year’s celebration.”

The event returns to the Hackberry Community Center and is open to the entire community to attend.The festival is free.

The students have many fun things planned including photos with Santa, cookie decorating, ornament crafts and a holiday music program. An 18-foot community Christmas tree will be raised in front of the Center and will remain lit throughout the holiday season. Food and drink will also be provided, and new to the festival will be a Holiday Marketplace.

“Our kids aren’t given many opportunities to play active roles in our community and this is a great chance for them to exhibit their leadership skills,” said Helmer.

Mark your calendar to attend the Hackberry Holiday Festival on December 8th from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.