More than 100 people gathered and socially distanced in Red Bay Sunday to celebrate Christmastime with the city’s second annual Christmas Tree Lighting.

The event took place in Bay Tree Park, where people were able to hear music and a lesson on the meaning of Christmas before lighting the tree.

“Isn’t Christmas just a beautiful time to be in Red Bay?” said Red Bay Mayor Charlene Fancher. “We are so thankful to all of you for coming out and celebrating with us tonight.”

The event echoed this year’s theme for Christmas in Red Bay, “Celebrate Joy.” Fancher said “JOY” stands for Jesus, Others and Yourself.

“Just as lighting this tree brings joy to all of us in Red Bay, I pray that each of you feel joy every day,” Fancher said.

Those in attendance got to enjoy music played by local musicians, including the gospel group “ReSound,” before the lighting of the tree by this year’s parade grand marshal, retiring city clerk Linda Holcomb.

The night concluded with a short lesson from Red Bay First Baptist Church pastor Bill Harper, who reminded everyone what the true reason for the season was.

Harper shared a lesson from Matthew 1:21, the story of Jesus’ birth.

“This verse tells the good news and the bad news, that we are in need of saving but that Jesus will do that for us,” Harper said. “We are sinners in need of saving, and it does not matter what politician we elect or bill we pass, we can’t ever change that.”

Harper encouraged those in attendance to remember the bad news of why Jesus was sent to earth so they can appreciate the good news of his birth.

“You will always be miserable until you let your heart be a manger where the Christ child can be born,” Harper said.

Fancher said she is blessed to live in a town like Red Bay, where God is celebrated so openly and everyone is able to celebrate the true meaning of the holidays.

“I am always thankful for the town of Red Bay, but Christmas reminds me how special of a place it is that we live in,” Fancher said.