To the Editor:
It is hard to describe the excitement, joy, and celebration of a town that takes place on the first Wednesday after Thanksgiving in Oak Bluffs, but those who make it to the tree lighting are never disappointed.
Post Office Square is packed with children of all ages, parents, friends and even a few friendly dogs. It is not a long event; 30 or 40 minutes at best. Every minute counts. Antlers and hot chocolate for all, and the traditional caroling by the Vineyard Classic Brass. The tree is lit!
Excitement builds and soon the wailing siren of the fire truck signals the arrival of the most important and magical person EVER! “Here Comes Santa Claus” is played, and the whirling mass of children is spectacular! Santa descends. His helpers collect the baskets brimming over with food donations for the Food Pantry. It is over too soon. The “ho, ho, hos” fade into the night, and another magical Tree Lighting concludes.
BIG thanks to the following for making the Oak Bluffs Tree Lighting such a great event:
Christine Todd, Mike Santoro and Jenn Toppin, OBFD Santa and Helpers, OBPD, Jessica Johns, Nell Coogan, Julie Rodenbaugh, Richie Combra Jr. and crew, Paul Mahoney, Vineyard Classic Brass, Deb and Jim Westervelt, Holly Alaimo, Brian Weiland and Paul Thurlow, Luke DeBettencourt, Eastaway–Basics, Phil daRosa, Audrey Aikens, and Gail Barmakian.
Best wishes for a great holiday.
Renee Balter
Oak Bluffs Association
