Sunday, February 8, 2026

Williams Celebrates Festival of Lights

WILLIAMS, CA (MPG) — The City of Williams’ Festival of Lights brought residents downtown for an evening of holiday shopping, food and a lighted parade featuring about 20 floats.

Dozens of vendors lined the event with craft booths, a range of foods and fundraisers.

The Grinch sprays artificial snow on Santa as a holiday-themed float rolls through the City of Williams Festival of Lights lighted parade in downtown Williams.

The parade featured floats decorated with holiday lights and Christmas themes, with Morning Star Packing Company’s Williams operation taking the top prize in a close vote, according to Parks and Recreation Director Ben Padilla.

“What an incredible Festival of Lights,” he said. “We had an amazing turnout with so many wonderful vendors, parade floats, and community members coming together to celebrate the season.”

A REACH air ambulance themed float passes spectators during the City of Williams Festival of Lights parade in downtown Williams.

Mayor Maria Belmontes Leyva, City Planner Katie Ramsaur and community member Lorena Padilla served as judges.

“The creativity and effort put into this year’s floats truly made the night special,” Padillia said.

Performances added to the evening, including the Jr. Bears Cheer, which will travel to Las Vegas for JAMZ nationals, and the Williams Jr. Yellowjackets.

Organizers thanked the City’s Public Works Department for event setup and support, and the Williams Police Department for providing safety during the family-focused festivities.

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