Deptford’s holiday season had a happy start on Dec. 2 as hundreds came together at the township recreation center for the community’s annual tree- lighting ceremony.
“We have a lot of folks here for the Christmas tree lighting,” said Councilman Wayne Love. “We had our children’s choir singing a lot of good songs here, and it’s just a lot of good-natured family fun that’s going on around here. So, we’re very happy to put this event in for our residents.”
“It’s been going fantastic,” said Mayor Paul Medany. “These events are for us to build community spirit. This is what we do, and what better time to build community spirit than with the spirit of Christmas?”
The tree lighting came after a brief speech by Medany and earned a standing ovation from the crowd. Also on hand were county commissioners Frank DiMarco and Jim Jefferson, who also spoke briefly.
“Merry Christmas to Deptford Township,” said Jefferson to the crowd. “I’m so glad to be here with Santa Claus. Hopefully I’m on the nice list.”
Other members of township council were also at the event to meet with residents. The children’s choir is made up of students from Deptford elementary schools.
Once the tree was lit, there were a variety of different activities at the rec center. Residents could make s’mores by fire pits set up to keep people warm on the cold December night. A live Nativity scene was featured and there were also wagon rides that highlighted decorative floats with Christmas characters.
Those characters were available to pose for pictures with residents during the two-hour event. These characters included Buddy the elf and the Grinch, who was “arrested” by Deptford police officers.
The major characters of Santa and Mrs. Claus also posed for pictures with attendees. The line was long but was split into four, half-hour time frames.
“It’s just a fun-filled event,” Medany noted. “It’s good stuff.”
