BRICK – Lights illuminated the town as families, friends, and township officials gathered in front of the Municipal Complex for the annual tree lighting.
Home to Town Hall, Brick Police Department, and its offices, the Complex transformed into a winter wonderland for the holiday season with residents enjoying candy canes, hot chocolate, and even snow blowing through the cold air.
“It’s an awesome night. It feels like Christmas. It’s nice and cold everyone has hats and gloves and scarves on,” Mayor John Ducey said.
At the ceremony, Mayor Ducey was joined by Council President Vince Minichino, Council Vice-President Lisa Crate, Councilwoman Heather deJong, Councilwoman Andrea Zapcic and Councilman Derrick Ambrosino.
Before the big reveal of this year’s tree, students from both high schools in town performed some holiday songs to get everyone in the holiday spirit: The Brick Memorial Caroling Choir, directed by Kevin Bettys and Brick Township High School’s Select Ensemble called “Voices of Fire,” directed by Christopher Capone.
Also at the event was Girl Scout Troop 462 who provided cookies and hot chocolate while Troops 124 and 70 led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Once the ceremony concluded, it was time for the big reveal and a surprise from a very special guest. Out from the crowd, the man himself – Santa Claus – appeared and helped light up the Christmas tree. After a countdown, Santa hit the red button and the tree magically lit up with a big shiny start on top.
Residents then walked around to snap a photo with Santa and kids enjoyed a train ride around the parking lot.
Another tradition the Township holds is their row of Christmas trees presented in Town Hall.
“People always forget about this, but inside Town Hall is the Christmas trees. A lot of clubs in town and nonprofits, they all decorate Christmas trees in our hallway. Normally there is a theme, but this year the theme was ‘any choice.’ Tonight, Town Hall is open after business hours so everyone can check out some cool trees,” Mayor Ducey said.
The mayor thanked the members of the Council as well as the Recreation Department for their endless hard work with putting events like this together.
“Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate. We wish you all a happy, healthy and safe holiday season!” Ducey said.
