Good News In Essex County: Thanksgiving, Christmas Joy Abounds

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — The world can be a scary place. But it’s also filled with humor, inspiration and beauty. Let’s focus on that second part. Take a look at some recent good news stories in Essex County below. (Click the headlines to read).

Got a local news tip about something that will make your neighbors smile? Have an awesome photo you’d like to share? Send it to eric.kiefer@patch.com

Essex County Historic Holiday House Tour Returns For 2022

This year's event includes 11 sites in Essex County, which will be decorated for the holidays and open to the public for the weekend.

Send Letters To Santa In Nutley For Christmas 2022: Here's How

Santa plans to respond to every letter. And he'll send an email instead, if you'd rather go digital this year, Nutley officials said.

National Turkey Shortage Doesn't Stop Thanksgiving Giveaway In Newark

Newark Archdiocese: "We've never seen anything like this before — there was a lot of need this year."

Light Your House In Livingston: Holiday Decorating Contest Kicks Off

Decorate your house in Livingston and enter the annual contest, or vote for your favorite house by clicking our links below.

Bloomfield Hands Out Turkeys, COVID Tests For Thanksgiving

Bloomfield Mayor: "This yearly tradition is a great way to bring the community together and help those in need."

Essex County Cops Spearhead Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive

Several schools, churches, food pantries and shelters in Essex County recently got a boost from an annual Thanksgiving donation drive.

Essex County Teen's 'Turkey Bowl' Raises Money For 2 Local Charities

A local woman had a liver transplant as a teen. Her charity and another will benefit from a football game held this week by another teen.