Smithtown Reschedules Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony

SMITHTOWN, NY — The Town of Smithtown is set to host its annual Tree Lighting Ceremony from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 1 at Town Hall, at 99 W. Main St., Smithtown.

The lighting was originally scheduled for Wednesday but has been pushed back a day because of inclement weather, the town announced.

The community-based event includes live music, performances from local school districts, dance companies, delicious treats and an appearance from Santa Claus, courtesy of the Smithtown Fire Department.

The event is free for Smithtown residents.

“This event has grown significantly every year and for good reason: Our recreation department works in lockstep with the school districts, community organizations, businesses and nonprofits like the Smithtown Food Pantry for months to organize a fantastic live show, featuring our talented young residents," Supervisor Edward Wehrheim stated. "Additionally, the Smithtown Fire Department utilizes special satellite technology to coordinate logistics for Santa to make an early trip to Smithtown every year. This year we will have new performances, the Big Black Food Truck, the Girls Scouts are helping out and we will be serving gourmet hot chocolate and cookies courtesy of Panico’s Market. Finally, Santa will have his own chair handy so kids can take photos, and interact with him easier. If you haven’t been to the Annual Tree Lighting, I highly recommend you mark your calendars to experience the festivities this year.”

Feature performances include the William T. Roger Middle School Chorus, Hauppauge Kickline, Great Hollow Middle School Chorus, Commack Varsity Cougarettes, Smithtown JV Whisperettes, Accompsett Middle School Chorus, Smithtown West Varsity Whisperettes, Smithtown West Jazz Choir and Sara Jean Dance Company.

Entertainment for the evening will include holiday music and balloon sculpting for kids of all ages by Animations. Cookies and hot chocolate will be donated by Panico's Community Market and will be served by local Girl Scouts.

Santa Claus will be catching a ride with the Smithtown Fire Department and will have a special chair set up for kids to interact with him prior to leading the countdown for the lighting of the tree.

Additionally, The Big Black Food Truck will be on-site with delicious food and treats available for purchase.

The town will have a collection site set up for the Smithtown Food Pantry during the event. Residents may drop off non-perishables like canned foods, boxed cereals and snacks, powdered milk and powdered baby formula.

The Town of Smithtown Menorah Lighting Celebration is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, Dec. 20.