By Frank Sinatra, AAP Editor
Whether it’s Santa Claus being escorted through town via fire engine, or the return of the town’s tree lighting, Pennsauken’s celebration of the holidays continues with a variety of festive community events.
Pennsauken Fire Department Escorts Santa Through Town
The Pennsauken Fire Department is ready to launch “Operation Santa” for the holidays. Starting at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 4, Santa Claus, escorted by the Pennsauken Township Fire Department, will visit every neighborhood in Pennsauken in a single day. Residents are asked to listen for the sirens and air horns from the Fire Department apparatus as Santa is driven around town.
In-Person Tree Lighting And Holiday Light Extravaganza
On Wednesday, Dec. 8, the Township will hold it’s in-person Tree Lighting and Holiday Light Extravaganza at the Township’s Municipal Complex, 5605 N. Crescent Blvd.
“We got in touch with Santa Claus at the North Pole. He’s got some time to come down to Pennsauken to help us light the Township’s tree for the holidays,” explained Mayor DiBattista. “Saint Nick, Mrs. Claus, and some of their friends will be able to stay and greet residents, as they enjoy a fun and entertaining light display.”
At 6:00 p.m., Santa Claus will arrive via fire engine to light the tree. In addition to seeing Jolly Ole’ Saint Nicholas, kids can also drop off their letters to Santa that evening in a special mailbox set up on site. Mr. Claus will read some of these notes in a special video that will be shared later in the month on Pennsauken Television’s YouTube channel and via social media.
Through 9:00 p.m. that evening, attendees will be able to walk around the light display on the municipal grounds, enjoy musical performances from the PHS Choir and the Eagles Pep Band, and purchase refreshments from food trucks. Residents also have the option of driving through the municipal parking lot to view decorated fire engines, police cars, municipal vehicles, and more.
The Township will also be accepting new, unwrapped toys during the event for the annual Angel Tree program, which helps local families in need during the holidays.
Santa, Hayrides, At PHS On December 10
A special “Santa In The Field House and Holiday Hayride” event will be held on Friday, Dec. 10 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the Pennsauken High School Field House, 800 Hylton Rd. Admission is completely free; families can take pictures with Santa and tour the grounds of the high school on a hayride adventure. There will also be giveaways, hot chocolate, and candy canes.
Breakfast With Santa On December 11
Children have an opportunity to join Santa Claus for breakfast, from 8:30 to 11:00 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 11, at its new location of the Pennsauken Country Club, 3800 Haddonfield Rd.
“We’re bringing back our annual Breakfast Santa bigger and better than ever before,” said Mayor DiBattista. “Not only will families get a great meal, but kids will also be able to tell Santa Claus what they want for Christmas.”
In addition, there will be face painting, music, balloon sculpting and gifts. Tickets are $10 per person. The event is sponsored in part by the Pennsauken Education Association.
All tickets must be purchased in advance. Based on demand, there is the possibility of a second breakfast with Santa Claus to be added on Sunday, Dec. 12. For more information, call (856) 665-1000 ext. 104 or email emartz@twp.pennsauken.nj.us.
Pennsauken’s Fifth Annual Holiday Lights Contest
Attention all Clark Griswold fans! Pennsauken Township is holding its fifth annual holiday lights contest this month!
A team of light seekers will be dispatched in their Rudolph-drawn sleighs to locate the most impressive expressions of Christmas spirit the town has to offer. To have your decorated home considered for this year’s contest, complete the online form located at the Township’s website by Monday, Dec. 13, and your home will be added to the list.
Official judging will occur between the hours of 7:00-9:00 p.m. on Dec. 16 and 17. Each judging team will perform “street view” evaluations of your home for creativity, holiday spirit, and general appeal. If you don’t have the brightest house in town, don’t worry; all types of décor will be considered, from nostalgic to Griswold or religious to detailed. All entries are welcome. Several winners will be chosen; these homes will be recognized during Facebook Live videos right before Christmas. All houses considered for this competition will be included in an online list so that residents can enjoy the local light displays.
