Marlboro Township’s Tree Lighting Ceremony Goes Virtual For 2020

MARLBORO, NJ - Marlboro Township’s annual christmas tree and menorah lighting will continue in 2020, save for one component: an audience.

The seasonal community-wide event, which typically takes place at town hall, will be livestreamed on Dec. 14 via township’s Facebook page. The event modifications come amid an influx in regional COVID-19 cases, according to an email from Marlboro Township Mayor Jon Hornik.

“We are pleased to announce that our annual holiday Christmas Tree and Menorah lighting will be held on Monday, December 14 at 6:00pm,” Hornik wrote. “The event will be livestreamed on the Township Facebook page and shortly after uploaded to Channel 77. Please grab a cup of hot cocoa and join us virtually as we celebrate the season.”

On Dec. 9 alone, the township reported 21 new cases and 1,333 total cumulative cases, an increase of 154 positive tests since Dec. 1. As of Sunday, there are 371 active cases in the municipality, the highest number of active local cases Marlboro has reported at any single time.

“As the number of cases continues to rise, please do your part to slow the spread by practicing social distancing, wearing a face covering when social distancing is not possible, not gathering in large crowds, washing their hands and staying home when sick, Hornik said. “While I am very optimistic that with the release of vaccines we will ultimately move on from this crisis, we still need to get through the next few months until the vaccine is put into effect in our community.”

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But despite the reported spikes, there are still several safe ways to celebrate the holidays in the township. This year, Marlboro has partnered with Charity Kings for its annual toy drive. New, unwrapped toys can be dropped off in bins found at the recreation center and town hall lobby no later than Dec. 14.

Families can also send letters to Santa by using a letter box outside the Local Recreation Center by Dec. 14 (1996 Recreation Way). To receive a reply, residents should include a self-addressed and stamped envelope.

Locals with a creative flair can show off their talents through the township’s holiday house decorating contest, which will see participating residents featured on an interactive drive-by map. Houses can be registered on community pass or by sending an email to recreation@marlboro-nj.gov as soon as possible. Judging will take place from Dec. 14 to 17 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. will be based on creativity, details and holiday spirit.

Residents can also show off their Dreidel talents via the Hanukkah Dreidel Challenge. Send a photo or video of your favorite Dreidel, your longest spin or the most creative spinning location to recreation@marlboro-nj.gov by Dec. 18.