The township Christmas tree arrived on a wagon to be lit during the township’s annual holiday event on Dec. 7. Below, Deptford police officers “apprehended” the Grinch after he attempted to ruin Christmas by stealing Santa’s gift bag.
Deptford hosted its annual tree lighting on Dec. 7 both inside and outside of the township recreation center.
The event drew hundreds, according to Mayor Paul Medany, marking the official welcome of the holiday season. It kicked off with Mr. and Mrs. Santa Clause being brought in by wagon as the Grinch loomed closely in the background. The crowd gave them a round of applause before they made their way to a Christmas tree situated on a trailer.
The Grinch tried to make off with Santa’s gift bag, until he caught the “attention” of two police officers. The Clauses and council members then lit the tree for an official start to the evening.
“It’s going great,” said Medany. ” … The weather is a little bit chilly, but everyone is having a great time. Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus are here, and actually the police officers did a little show and ‘arrested’ the Grinch. That was all good stuff.
“It’s just another great community event.”
The event also featured members from all grades in the school district’s student choir, who performed and sang a number of Christmas songs. A Nativity scene with live animals was featured, along with Buddy the Elf, who talked and goofed off with attendees throughout the night. Hayrides were also offered to give guests a glimpse of nearby area fields.
The Clauses were inside the decorated recreation center, where a showing of the 2018 film “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” took place. Though the night was chilly, it was not a major concern for the township, according to the mayor.
“It really wasn’t a huge concern,” he noted. “The choir is outside singing. We did decide to move Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus inside because they’re sitting still. We didn’t want them to freeze up and not be able to talk to the children.”
Food and beverages were available, while also on hand were Police Chief Joseph Smith and recreation director Charlie Kirchner. The event was run by the police, public works and parks and recreation departments, as well as volunteers, many from Deptford’s pickleball club.
“The recreation department, again like I always say, did a fantastic job,” Medany said. ” … It’s a whole township event and community event. It’s fantastic.”
