New Milford rings in holiday season with tree lighting
Hundreds gathered Saturday night at the town’s center to kick off the holiday season with the annual lighting of the Christmas trees on the Village Green.
The event, hosted by the Greater New Milford Chamber of Commerce, also coincided with Small Business Saturday founded in 2010 to encourage people to shop at small business the Saturday after Thanksgiving.
Chris Prause, president of the United Methodist Church’s Men’s Club, which puts up the trees, shared a brief history of the tree project, Greater New Milford Chamber of Commerce volunteers were introduced, Mayor Pete Bass greeted the crowd, and State Senator Stephen Harding wished all gathered a festive season before a special guest, Santa, led the crowd in a countdown to turn on the tree lights.
The tradition of the trees on the Green was started by Walter Schutte in 1967 and the practice continues in his memory.
Over the years, many people have come from near and far to view the trees.
Deborah Rose/Santa sports a mischievous smile as he makes his way through the crowd to help residents ring in the holiday season.
Deborah Rose/Kids sat atop their parents’ shoulders and cheered as Santa arrived for the tree lighting ceremony.
Deborah Rose/A jolly Santa Claus erupts with laughter as he teases with members of the crowd about being on the Nice List.
Deborah Rose/Residents spill over the south end of the Green and the crossover for the annual event.
Deborah Rose/Chamber Executive Director Bob Reiling welcomes attendees to the event that has become a family tradition for many.
Deborah Rose/ Kids sit atop their parents’ shoulders and cheered as Santa arrived for the tree lighting ceremony.
Deborah Rose/Chris Prause, president of the New Milford United Methodist Church’s Men’s Club, listens as Santa revs up the crowd.
Deborah Rose/Hannah Wagner, 9, of New Milford shares a moment with Santa.
Deborah Rose/Residents Anne McClelland, left, and Sandy Boland pose for a picture by one of the 17 trees that were lighted Saturday.
Deborah Rose/A line of attendees wait patiently to visit with Santa after the lights are lit.
