A Winter Night Market, organized by the Mathews Main Street Committee, was held on Dec. 8 in downtown Mathews.

Shops stayed open late and there were holiday specials, holiday treats, and an elf scavenger hunt with a prize drawing for shoppers, said a press release. Carolers were on the streets, and Santa Claus made an appearance.

The event culminated with the lighting of the town Christmas tree on the court green, with more caroling, a hot chocolate bar, and announcement of the light decorating contest winners, said the release.

Winners of the light and decorating contest were: Best Overall, Southwind Pizza; Most Festive, Bay School Community Arts Center; and Most Creative, Mathews Family YMCA for the display at the Boys and Girls Club.

Sponsors of the event were Roane’s Antiques at the Cottage, Bush Construction Company/Westville Landing, M&M Building Supply, Chesapeake Bank, Lily Valentine, Mathews Historical Museum, The Studio on Church Street, Moughons, Inc., Lori ...