Basalt tree lighting Friday at Willits

Basalt’s second tree lighting of the season will be held Friday at Triangle Park in Willits Town Center.

Events will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Kitchen Collage will hold a cookie baking contest for non-professional bakers. Participants should drop off a dozen of their creations by 3:30 p.m. The judging begins at 4:30 p.m. and prizes will be awarded.

In addition to the tree lighting after dusk, there will be carriage rides, visits with Santa Claus, a bonfire where people can drink hot chocolate and spiced cider, and “merrymaking.”

Two benefits will also be held. New, unwrapped toys should be dropped off at Coldwell Banker Mason Morse in Willits to benefit midvalley families in need. The Aspen Community Foundation is seeking donations to its emergency assistance fund for families in need.