NUTLEY, NJ — Mayor Joseph P. Scarpelli and the Board of Commissioners have announced plans to host one of Nutley’s oldest traditions – the annual Holiday Christmas Tree and Menorah Lighting.
The entire community is invited to attend the township’s official kick-off of the holiday season. The annual celebration will take place on Sunday, Dec. 2, from 5:30 to 7 p.m., with activities scheduled to take place both inside John H. Walker Middle School and areas in and around the Nutley Park Oval. Franklin Avenue will be closed between Chestnut and New Streets during the event.
“Our holiday celebration is a wonderful tradition that brings families and friends together to welcome in the holiday season,” said Scarpelli. “It is a great way to see our community at its best.”
Santa returns to Nutley with his reindeer and will be ready to have his picture taken with the children.
Carrying on the holiday tradition, the celebration will include live entertainment from local musical groups approximately every 15 to 20 minutes, including the Elementary School Choir, the John H. Walker Middle School Concert Choir, the Middle School Jazz Band, the Choralettes, and the Brass Ensemble. Under the direction of Music Director James Riley, the groups will provide a medley of holiday music sure to please all in attendance.
The event’s festivities will feature a mini-train ride, horse and buggy rides, roasted chestnuts, cider, doughnuts and family entertainment.
There will be fundraising to support the Friends of the Nutley Singers and the Nutley Music Boosters Association. At the conclusion of the celebration, all are invited to visit the live Nativity at the Vincent United Methodist Church from 7 to 8 p.m., with performances every 20 minutes.
“Nothing is more beautiful than seeing the Park Oval decorated for the holiday season,” said Scarpelli.
Visit the township’s website at www.nutleynj.org/treelighting or contact the Department of Public Works at 973-284-4984 for additional information.