Nora Hadesty, a third-grade student at St. Jerome Regional School in Hometown, has been crowned 2025 Little Miss Spirit of Christmas.

She was one of four girls in third to fifth grades who participated in the contest.

Each submitted a short essay explaining “What the Spirit of Christmas Means to Me.” The essays and the girls’ photographs were on display at Hope & Coffee during the two-week period of balloting.

In her essay, Hadesty, 8, wrote, “To me, the Spirit of Christmas means happiness, kindness and family traditions. It is a magical time of year to spend with family and friends.”

Other participants, listed alphabetically, and their essays are:

Julia DiLisio, St. Jerome Regional School — “The Spirit of Christmas means to me having fun with my family. We play games and bake cookies together.”

Jemma Hartz, Tamaqua Elementary School — “To me Christmas isn’t just about the gifts — It’s about giving, caring, and celebrating the blessings we have. That is what Christmas means to me.”

Kiera Kelly, St. Jerome Regional School — “Christmas spirit means being with my family, keeping the fun traditions, and thanking God. The lights sparkle, my heart feels warm, and happiness is shared.”

As Little Miss Spirit, Hadesty will participate in the activities scheduled for the Dec. 4 to 7 Spirit of Christmas Festival.

All contestants will participate in welcoming Santa to Depot Square Park for the lighting and meet and greet beginning at 6 p.m. on Dec. 5.

For more information on the annual festival, visit Tamaqua Spirit of Christmas Facebook page or call the Tamaqua Community Arts Center at 570-668-1192.