Seasonal & Holidays

Grinch Attempts To Thwart Berkeley Christmas Tree Lighting

The Grinch tried to steal Christmas once again, but he was quickly handcuffed by Berkeley police before he could get to Santa.

BERKELEY, NJ — Berkeley's Christmas tree lighting at Veterans Park went off without a hitch Friday night - except for a brief interruption by the Grinch, who tried to steal Christmas from the township.

The night began with performances by the Central Regional choir, Central Regional marching band, Central Regional cheerleading and local dance school Dance Force.

Once the massive Christmas tree was lit, Santa Claus himself arrived with the Bayville Fire Department, making his way to the stage and greeting all of the children who gathered around him.

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But as Santa settled in his chair, something strange happened.

The Grinch popped up and snuck across the stage, carrying sacks of stolen Christmas goodies.

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Not to worry, though, as Berkeley police were on the scene.

An officer quickly tackled the Christmas thief, handcuffing him and proclaiming that nobody could steal Christmas in Berkeley before carting him off to the patrol car.

Santa was then able to proceed with taking photos with the children, before the township showed a drive-in movie - "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," of course.

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