Lily Sloan

Lynbrook kicks off the Holidays with its annual tree lighting!

Lynbrook hosts a tree lighting ceremony each year as a way to kick off the holiday season. The tree was lit in front of Regal Cinemas with a photo booth in front of it for pictures with Santa on Saturday, Dec. 2. Children from Dance Workshop performed before the lighting, and carolers sang holiday tunes. Alongside Santa was the Grinch and Frosty the Snowman.

The Lynbrook Recreation Center set up and planned most of the tree lighting this year. Members of the Student Government Association (SGA) volunteered to help with different activities at tables during the ceremony. Some of these activities included making reindeer food and writing letters to Santa. Senior Alayna Matern and junior Evie Dellacona had positive experiences working at these stations. “I [made] reindeer food with kids, so [that] the reindeer are strong on Christmas. Seeing all [those] kids light up with joy brought me happiness. I also helped choreograph the dance for the Elite team at the Recreation Center that performed right before the tree lit up,” Matern recalled. Dellacona worked at another table, helping kids write letters to Santa. “I am so glad I came this year. I enjoy seeing the community come together for this event,” she said.

As Dellacona said, many members of the Lynbrook community were in attendance. Freshman Meryl Bilal gave her input on the special night: “I usually come with my friends or family every year. Seeing the tree getting lit up and everyone being happy was my favorite part by far.” 

This year’s tree lighting created long-lasting memories for families and friends of all ages. Everyone was able to experience some festive activities and fun, whether they were with family or were volunteering their time to provide holiday spirit.