New Haven, CT - The City of New Haven will host its annual holiday tree lighting ceremony on the historic New Haven Green Thursday, December 1. The free family-fun event kicks off downtown’s holiday season at 5:30pm with live performances by Brennan-Rogers School, Mauro/Sheridan Magnet School, Celentano Museum Academy, and the Educational Center for the Arts Vocal Ensemble. The program will be co-hosted by Mayor John DeStefano, Jr. and WTNH News Channel 8/MyTV 9’s own Gil Simmons. Santa, Ronald McDonald and other special guests will lend a hand to illuminate the tree.
“New Haven’s tree lighting celebration is a regional tradition. Stick around afterwards to enjoy the world-class shopping, arts and food here in New Haven. Come support your local businesses during the holiday season,” said Mayor John DeStefano Jr.
This year’s tree sponsored by Peoples United Bank is a 65-foot-tall Norway spruce donated by Steve and Marie McDermott of Northford. The tree will be illuminated with 20,000 sparkling energy-efficient LED lights in an array of colors.
From 4-8pm there will be a host of free activities for children to enjoy- carousel rides, mini-car rides, holiday crafting, storytelling and the opportunity to be part of the “Alpine Safari” by riding on one of four mechanical animals, free of charge. There will also be cider and free horse drawn carriage rides around the Green for all to enjoy. After the tree is lit, children can visit and take photos with Santa until 7:30PM.
The event is presented by the City of New Haven Department of Arts, Culture and Tourism and the Department of Parks, Recreation and Trees. The children’s activities are sponsored by Casey Family Services and Yale New Haven Hospital.
In the case of extreme inclement weather, the tree lighting will be held Friday, December 2. For more information, visit www.infonewhaven.com or contact (203)
946-7172.
