Rain-soaked Tree Lighting in Mount Arlington

MOUNT ARLINGTON – A steady, cold rain did not deter borough residents from taking part in the annual lighting of the Christmas tree at Memorial Park, Friday evening.

Two dozen school kids turned out to sing Christmas carols most taking shelter under umbrellas as they waited for the arrival of Santa Claus who helped light the tree.

Mayor Art Ondish thanked the recreation commission for organizing the event and thanked the crowd of about 200 for braving the weather before beginning the countdown to light the tree.

From Memorial Park, Santa, the kids and their families made their way to the Civic Center where cups of hot chocolate, cookies and candy awaited them, courtesy of the recreation commission. Santa sat next to a decked-out Christmas tree for photos with the kids.

Borough kids get together to sing Christmas carols. Lucas Roldan, 8, screams with delight at the sight of Santa Claus arriving at Memorial Park.
Kids pose for pictures under the lighted Christmas tree at Memorial Park.
Hot chocolate and cookies courtesy of the recreation commission waited in the Civic Center.
Meghan Kilpatrick, 9 and Elizabeth Devery, 10, enjoy hot chocolate with whipped cream.
Kids were treated to a basket of candy.
Daniel Aguilar, 4, gives Santa a low five at the Civic Center.