A group of kids gets ready for a game at last year’s Christmas in July event at the recreation center.
Deptford will bring the December holiday spirit to the community in the heat of summer with its annual Christmas Eve in July at the recreation center.
The free event will feature decorations with a tropical theme, and Christmas holiday characters like Santa and Buddy the Elf will be on hand. A DJ will play music and there will be games with guests, as well as free pictures for kids with Santa, who will be dressed in a lighter outfit compared with his usual red coat.
Food and refreshments will be provided. Mayor Paul Medany and members of council, who will be on hand to talk to residents.
“It’s for all ages, but it’s mostly for a lot of families and children,” Medany said. “It’s just a fun night out for families.”
The event’s usual date is July 25, but that date falls on a Friday this year, so Christmas Eve in July has been scheduled a day earlier, on Thursday, July 24, from 6 to 8 p.m.
The township estimates a crowd of more than 300 people, and officials are listening to feedback from residents to craft a better experience.
“Every year we want to add more things to do,” Medany explained. “We heard people wanted more food options, so we’re having hot dogs this year, and possibly Chick-Fil-A. We try to add more things and eliminate some stuff to make it more fun for the kids.”
