TOMS RIVER, N.J. — The holiday season officially began in Toms River as Mayor Dan Rodrick and Santa Claus presided over the annual Christmas tree lighting outside Town Hall Friday evening.
This year’s event featured a new addition to the holiday display: a nativity scene installed in the downtown area near Town Hall, marking a festive enhancement to the township’s traditions.
“We should not be afraid to tell each other “Merry Christmas” during the holiday season or celebrate the true meaning of the holiday,” Rodrick said, noting that there has been a push in America to remove Jesus and religion from the holiday in recent years. “We’re no longer afraid, and nobody should be afraid of celebrating Christmas and the true spirit of Christmas, which is a celebration of the birth of Jesus.”
When asked, Rodrick said he did not know why previous mayors had omitted the nativity scene from the Christmas display.
Hundreds of residents gathered to witness the lighting of the Christmas tree, which was accompanied by performances from the Donovan Catholic High School choir. Students sang Christmas carols, filling the crisp December air with holiday spirit.
“This is a wonderful way to bring our community together and celebrate the Christmas season,” Mayor Rodrick said during the ceremony. “I want to thank everyone who came out and made tonight such a joyous and happy occasion.”
