Bethel Moving Winterfest Tree Lighting To The Town Hall

**News Release Submitted by Town of Bethel**

Nov. 7, 2023

The Town of Bethel took the first step in moving the annual tree lighting with the planting of the new holiday tree on the lawn in front of Town Hall.

The culmination of the annual Bethel Winterfest, which is hosted by the Bethel Chamber of Commerce, has been a tree lighting on PT Barnum Square followed by the arrival of Santa. The event held on the day after Thanksgiving has become more popular and drawn larger crowds each year. PT Barnum Square is now too small to safely accommodate the attendees.

“Even with the move of the tree lighting around the corner, the tradition will continue,” remarked First Selectman Dan Carter. “I am certain the Chamber of Commerce will make the most of the new location and create an amazing event.”

“It’s been a long time coming,” according to Selectman Rich Straiton. “Moving the tree lighting to the Municipal Center has been a topic of conversation for many years and we are thankful for the collaboration of Hollandia Nurseries and New England Tree Movers, both Bethel businesses, for the donation of Bethel’s new Christmas tree.”

Hollandia Nurseries donated the tree and New England Tree Movers donated their services to move and plant the tree. “Hollandia has been proud to be a part of the Town of Bethel and the local community for 60 years,” said Eugene Reelick, the owner of Hollandia. “It is great to plant trees in our community that we can watch grow and gather around to celebrate special times.”

This year Winterfest will take place on November 24, 2023 along Greenwood Ave. in Bethel from 2 pm to 7 pm. The event features horse-drawn carriage rides from 2 pm to 4:30 pm, music, shopping along Greenwood Ave, and great food from Bethel’s many restaurants. Many local groups participate, so expect soup, hot cocoa stations and much more. The tree lighting will take place in front of Town Hall at 5:30 pm followed by Santa’s arrival.

The tree on PT Barnum Square will also be decorated and the various religious and public displays will remain on PT Barnum Square.