Hundreds Attend Annual Village Tree Lighting

The man in red was spotted on the Village Green Sunday at the Garden City Chamber of Commerce's 63rd annual Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony, where hundreds gathered to usher in the holiday season.

This year's program, once again sponsored by Sterling National Bank (formerly named Astoria Bank), featured the Garden City High School Vocal Jazz Ensemble who performed a medley of holiday music, the Fivestone Band, which also performed many holiday favorites, and the talented dancers from the West End's Broadway Bound Dance Center. The Garden City Volunteer Fire Department graciously provided hot chocolate for the festivities.

Santa arrived in style on a Garden City fire truck to the delight of children young and old. Mayor Brian Daughney and Chamber Executive Director Dennis Donnelly, along with his grandson, Colin Cutrone, flipped the switch on the Village tree. Also in attendance were Deputy Mayor John DeMaro, Trustees Robert Bolebruch, Stephen Makrinos and John Delany, and Chamber of Commerce officers and Board members. Hempstead Town Councilman Ed Ambrosino and Assemblyman Ed Ra also joined the festivities.