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11/23/2015 11:00 PMFor more than three decades, the Town of Guilford and the Chamber of Commerce have partnered to host the tree lighting on the Guilford Green. This year’s event begins at 6 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 4.
As usual, the bandstand will be set up on the Green with entertainment beginning at 6 p.m. While the lineup of entertainment is not yet available, the audience will definitely see performances by local students.
At 6:45 p.m., Santa takes the stage to get ready for the countdown to the tree lighting. Kathy Testa, director of public relations of the Shoreline Chamber of Commerce, noted that the original tree on the southeast corner got too big and a new tree has been used for the past three years.
“The problem with the larger tree was that we had to have it decorated by the Fire Department’s ladder truck and since we only have one ladder truck, it would have to leave in case of a call,” said Testa. “We planted a new tree on the opposite side of the Green and it’s growing beautifully and looks great.”
While the actual program leading up to the tree lighting lasts only an hour, Testa encourages people to get to the Green early.
“We get thousands of people at this event every year,” said Testa. “Unless you come at a reasonable hour, there is no way to park at the Green.”
In addition to the program leading up to the tree lighting, there are several other events to enjoy in the immediate area of the Green, both before and after the tree lighting. Many of the shops surrounding the Green will remain open through tree lighting, which “makes for a festive atmosphere,” according to Testa.
She also noted that visitors can walk to the various historic homes along Broad Street to enjoy their decorated doors. The wreaths adorning each door are made and donated by the Guilford Garden Club.
In addition, there are several performances and receptions at area churches and the community center in conjunction with the tree lighting.
The Guilford Garden Club hosts the annual Christmas Boutique where it offers wreaths, swags, centerpieces, boxwood treats, raffles, and more from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Fr. Sullivan Center at St. George’s Church. The North Guilford Hand Bell Choir performs at St. George Church at 5 p.m. St. George Church will host its annual cookie walk after the tree lighting.
There will be a chorus concert at First Congregational Church from 7:30 to 9 p.m. The Christ Church Choir will perform in collaboration with the Greater New Haven Community Chorus and Chamber Choir at 7:30 p.m. at Christ Episcopal Church.
Starship Dance Theater opens The Magic Toyshop on Friday, Dec. 4 with a performance at the Nathanael Greene Community Center at 7:30 p.m. There are several other performances offered throughout the weekend. For tickets and information, visit starshipdancestudio.com.
Find a full calendar of the weekend’s events at Zip06.com.