TOMS RIVER – While a few degrees lower in temperature might have meant trading raindrops for snowflakes, the spirit of the holidays remained undampened as hundreds of people came out to attend the Toms River tree lighting ceremony.
The event kicked off with a number of performances held inside the Toms River branch of the Ocean County Library. Downtown Toms River strategically organized 20-minute sets for an assortment of groups. Those featured included the Toms River High School South Choir, Microphonics, The Dance Center, Elsa “The Ice Queen,” Donovan Catholic, and a Reading of “Twas the Night Before Christmas.”
Children’s faces lit up with excitement as they took advantage of posing for pictures with characters from Disney’s “Frozen.” Others eagerly stood in line as volunteers twisted balloons for them into various animal shapes.
Three marines outfitted in dress uniforms greeted visitors as they dropped off unwrapped toys for distribution. All three servicemen are stationed in Fort Dix as part of the MALS-49 unit. Two of the three are actually Toms River natives, with the third growing up in another part of New Jersey.
Staff Sgt. John Klubnick said that this was the first year the group decided to set up a collection at the tree lighting celebration. They had previously done so at the Station 25 firehouse.
“We’re not connected to the larger Toys for Tots for the area,” shared Klubnick. “We’re a separate entity, even though we wear the same uniform and use the same box.”
Klubnick said he received permission to use the name and the box for a more targeted reason. All toy donations accepted at the tree lighting went to the Oceans of Love Foundation for children who have cancer.
“Last year, we were able to donate $50,000 in toys,” Klubnick added.
As it neared 7 p.m., hoods and umbrellas went up as families and friends ventured outside brimming with anticipation. Toms River council members were on hand to watch the wonder of Christmas come to life with the tree lighting and the arrival of some treasured guests.
Santa Claus, the jolly gentleman, and his charming wife took center stage. Local firefighters gave the couple the celebrity treatment, providing an escort aboard one of their trucks. Families joyfully waved as they eventually caught up with the festive duo in the library, capturing memorable photographs.
With the famed couple by his side, Mayor Maurice “Mo” Hill paved the way for local schoolchildren eager to weave a touch of magic as they pressed the button to illuminate the towering tree.
“We are reminded by Winston Churchill that we make a life by what we give,” said Hill. “As we approach this holiday season, let’s remember to share our holiday season with those less fortunate.”
“The lonely, the homebound, and those who are suffering a loss,” Hill continued. “That’s the greatest gift you can give.”
Despite the unexpected rain, the Toms River tree lighting ceremony was a resounding success, bringing the community together to celebrate the start of the holiday season. The event served as a reminder that the true spirit of Christmas lies in the warmth and togetherness of the community.
And the festivities didn’t just stop there! Downtown Toms River planned two days of Winter Wonderland celebrations on December 2 and 9. Both dates offered times to enjoy handcrafted vendors, yummy holiday treats, DIY holiday family activities, holiday story time with New Life Church of Toms River, and dance performances by The Dance Centre.
