ASKEWVILLE – One of Bertie County’s smallest towns enjoyed a big celebration Monday night.

The town of Askewville hosted its annual Christmas Tree Lighting program in front of the largest crowd in the event’s history with more than 200 people in attendance.

Martha Lou White of the Askewville Community Projects welcomed those in attendance.

“We’re glad you’re with us tonight,” she said. “Thank you to everyone who helped in any way.”

Alyssa Harden, one of the children from Askewville Assembly of God, introduced the group’s performance.

“Let us think back to the reason for the season – Jesus’ birth,” Harden said.

The group of youngsters then sang one of the songs from their upcoming Christmas production.

Askewville Baptist Church Pastor the Rev. David Crumpler offered a prayer of invocation for the gathering.

Three local talents took the stage in turn to provide Christmas music for those in attendance. Tiffany White sang a medley of “Hark, the Herald Angels Sing” and “O, Come All Ye Faithful” while Casey Hoggard sang, “Mary, Did You Know?”

Vonda Harden followed with three selections. They included “The Christmas Song,” “Winter Wonderland” and “Heirlooms.”

Mayor John Pierce then wished the crowd, “Merry Christmas” before the children of Askewville came forward and sang two selections. They then went out to the porch where their rendition of “We Wish You A Merry Christmas” was the background for the lighting of the tree.