The holiday season got started with a “stroll” in Elmwood Park, and the community came out to help light the holiday tree, as Santa arrived and visited with youngsters.
The “Holiday Stroll in the Circle” was held Dec. 2 and featured the Turning Point Dancers performing, illuminating the village holiday tree, the Chicago Carolers rendering songs of the season, train rides and, of course, visits with St. Nick.
Additionally, kids could drop of letters to Santa.
The Friday night festivities were part several similar events in the area.
In nearby Franklin Park, mayor Barrett Pedersen and other town officials were on hand Dec. 1 as the village hosted “Winterfest at Hammill Square.” A crowd of families were present too, and several children helped Pedersen hit the switch to light the Christmas tree in the gazebo.
Additionally, kids from the local school district performed, a food drive was held to benefit the Leyden food pantry and a local PTA had a sock drive.
