The township hosted its annual Christmas in July event on July 24 at the recreation center.
According to the township, about 250 people were on hand during the two-hour free event, which was tailored to families and kids. The center was decorated with Christmas and tropical decorations and members of the council greeted guests with leis.
“It was a great community-building event and a fantastic addition to our event schedule,” said Mayor Paul Medany. “It’s a break in the summer and this is just a pure fun event. The kids in there are having fun, the disc jockey is great, the folks are here, they’re getting refreshments, they’re getting a little break from the summer heat.
“It’s great.”
Christmas in July featured appearances by several holiday characters such as Santa Claus, who swapped his usual look for a Hawaiian shirt and shorts; Frosty the Snowman; and Buddy the Elf. Even the Grinch stopped by to talk to and play games with the crowd that were presented by DJ Lilly. They included a hula- hooping contest that saw partners wrapping themselves in toilet paper.
“It really grew from last year’s event,” Medany noted. “We learn from each event, and each year, we improve upon itself.”
Among the improvements was a better selection of food and refreshments. The recreation department helped organize the event, where residents had the chance to talk with elected officials and police.
“The folks get to meet us, and we talk to them,” Medany said of the officials in attendance. “It’s good stuff. The success of the event is just that we’re having it and having fun.”
