BY JESSE BROOME

Springfield gathered on a chilly and misty evening on Wednesday, December 4th for the annual Winter Celebration & Tree Lighting, attracting hundreds of guests from the community to the Springfield Municipal Building.

The event took place from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM and featured remarks by Springfield Recreation Director Adam Lieb, Mayor Erica DuBois, and Deputy Mayor Christopher Capodice as well as live performances from The Winter Wonderland Band and Jonathan Dayton High School Daytones. The community was also invited to participate in entertainment and activities such as a Toy Soldier on Stilts, Olaf the Snowman, petting zoo, horse and carriage rides, Candy Land inflatable obstacle course, and Human Snow Globe photo booth.

At approximately 7:00 PM, the crowd gathered for the highlights of the evening; a visit from Santa Claus and the tree lighting. Santa Claus arrived via a horse-drawn carriage and was greeted by dozens of smiling children and adults. Then, with treats and hot drinks provided by the Springfield Fire Department and F.M.B.A Local #57 and free glow sticks courtesy of Springfield NJ BID, guests stood agaze at the spectacular decorations lit up against the night sky. The charity of the community was also on display with the successful collection of non-perishable food, gently used coats, and winter accessories by Holy Cross Lutheran Church of Springfield.

Community partners for the event included: Patriot Chamber of Commerce, Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Jonathan Dayton High School student volunteers, Boy Scout Troop #73, Business Improvement District, Township Committee, Auxiliary Police, Office of Emergency Management, F.M.B.A. Local #57, Fire Department, Police Department, Public Works Department, First Aid Squad.