Traffic backed up on Exit 4 of northbound Interstate 405 and westbound State Route 169 on Friday night, Dec. 8 as countless families tried to squeeze into the 3rd Annual Battle of the Badges event at the Renton Community Center.

For those lucky enough to get there early enough, the drive-thru holiday light event was a delight. Numerous law enforcement and first responder organizations and departments from the area, including the Kent Police Department, showed off their Christmas and holiday-themed illuminations, from Star Wars to Pirates of the Caribbean to How the Grinch Stole Christmas.

Guests were encouraged to vote for the best displays, with the categories of:

• First Place – Big Trophy: where folks voted for their overall favorite display. Awarded to South Correctional Entity for “A Star Wars Christmas”

• Clark Griswold Award: Recognizes the agency that takes holiday decorating to the extreme. Awarded to Issaquah Police Department for “Abominable Snowman”

• Festive Innovation Award: Recognizes the most innovative and unique holiday light display. Awarded to Port of Seattle Fire Department for “Return of the Grinch”

• Holiday Spirit Award: Awarded to Newcastle Police Department for “Buddy the Elf”