'Rudolph Rocs New Ro' As the City Celebrates A Hometown Icon

NEW ROCHELLE, NY — The creator of the iconic Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Robert L. May, will be inducted into the New Rochelle "Walk of Fame" this Sunday, and you are invited to help celebrate and join in all the reindeer games.

Organizers say that Ruby Dee Park will be transformed into a Winter Wonderland with Rudolph characters, music and dancing, arts and crafts, make-a-gift, face-painting and a gingerbread bounce house. Free antlers and red noses will be provided so participants will be able to dress like everybody's favorite reindeer.

The activity-packed festival, "Rudolph Rocs New Ro" will take place at Ruby Dee Park on Library Green this Sunday, from 3 p.m. - 5 p.m. The celebration will be hosted by the New Rochelle Department of Parks and Recreation, in collaboration with the New Rochelle Downtown Business Improvement District, the New Rochelle Chamber of Commerce and the New Rochelle Public Library.

The induction ceremony will take place at 4 p.m., with Robert May taking his place among other famous holiday image-makers such as J. Fred Coots, the composer of "Santa Claus is Coming to Town," and illustrator Norman Rockwell. Members of the May family will be in attendance, according to city officials.

SEE ALSO:

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• Jules Bass, Producer Of 'Rudolph' & 'Frosty' TV Specials, Dies At 87

"My siblings and I are thrilled that our father is being honored by his childhood 'hometown' of New Rochelle," May's daughter Martha May said. "He would be so pleased to know that Rudolph's story continues to give joy and inspiration, particularly to children who need that extra boost of confidence and courage."

The fun will continue at 5 p.m, with the Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Holiday Lighting Ceremony at Memorial Plaza, with music, refreshments and Santa.