The City of Camden along with multiple leading local organizations held a tree lighting ceremony during the first week of December. The tree lighting was held in front of City Hall in Roosevelt Park. It is a way to jumpstart the holiday season by including everyone in the festivities.
This year's ceremony although very cold, brought out many families and children to get their first glimpse of Santa. Saint Nick arrived on a decked out fire truck with an elf to assist him during his duties. As Santa strolled through the crowd all the children rushed up to him and he welcomed them with open arms. Not far behind him, his elf gave out candy canes to everyone.
Santa was just one of the many attractions the event offered. A New Jersey State Trooper sat on horseback as children came up to pet the horse and even take turns sitting on him. Free hot chocolate and cookies were given out by the Salvation Army and their live band also played a few Christmas songs to get everyone in the mood! Children from a Catholic school located in Camden sang and then got to enjoy the event along with others.
As we all gathered around waiting for the tree to spark up in lights, the mayor along with free holders and representatives from Public Works got a chance to say a few words about giving this holiday season. Children danced to the music, took pictures with the mascot from the salvation army and stood by Santa as they pressed the button to officially light up the tree.
This event not only showcases the ability for a community to have fun, but how easy it is to give and connect with fellow residents during the holiday season. Organizations pulled together to give everyone their first taste of the season and everyone noticed the excitement in the children's faces as they got to witness such a simple yet great event.
