KINGSTON — Six months of work illuminated the Port of Kingston Saturday night when thousands of lights were switched on during the opening ceremony of the Kingston Country Christmas.

The celebration included music by the Kingston High School jazz band and choir, a parade of boats and a visit from Santa. The light gardens were inspired by Bellevue Botanical Gardens’ holiday Garden d’Lights Festival.

While the Kingston event was going on, so was the Port Gamble Country Christmas Festival.

Holiday events continue with a visit from Santa Claus tonight, Dec. 12, from 6-7:30 p.m. at North Kitsap Fire & Rescue headquarters, 26642 Miller Bay Road NE, Kingston. Santa will hear Christmas wishes at the fire station, then will head to Kingston Middle School at the end of the school band’s annual holiday concert at around 7:45 p.m. Firefighters will also offer tours of the fire engine, refreshments and holiday safety tips.