The 14th annual Light up Damascus kicked off Friday with the annual pet parade and lighting ceremony featuring a message from Pastor Jon Long of the Damascus Methodist Church, a live nativity, and the announcement of the distinguished citizen of the year. Following the ceremony, was the new bright lights bus tour. Jordan Mathies, 10, and Preston Blankenship flip the switch to light the Christmas tree as Long presides.

Shown from left are John Bardo, 15, Lucy Bardo, 11, Maggie Burkholder, 17, and Ben Burkholder, 11.

Marilyn Wingett was named the 2025 distinguished citizen of the year Friday.