Maplewood's Dickens Village To Be Smaller, But Safe

MAPLEWOOD, NJ — Maplewood's traditional Dickens Village will return to Ricalton Square this year, just "modified" with more safety precautions due to the pandemic.

The Maplewood Village Alliance announced that Dickens Village will open up on Dec. 5, 12, and 19 from 1 to 3 p.m.

"Masks and social distancing rules will be observed," noted the alliance, "and monitored at all times so that we can maintain a safe environment for everyone."

The houses will be decorated, the tree will be lit, and Santa will be there for socially-distanced visits and pictures.

To make sure that Santa knows what children (and adults too) are wishing for, there will be a special mailbox for “Letters to Santa."

Mayor Frank McGehee will officiate at the Tree Lighting on Dec. 5 at 4:30 p.m. This will be a drive-by event at Ricalton Square. Everyone is encouraged to ride by or park in the parking lot but to remain in their cars.

There will also be a menorah lighting Dec. 15 at 6:15 p.m. at Ricalton Square.

Due to the economic burden of the pandemic on businesses, the organizers are not requesting donations this year.

For more information, click here.

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