By Tina Pappas

Seasonal sights and sounds filled the air at the borough’s Annual Tree Lighting on Dec. 3  The front lawn of the municipal complex was transformed into a spectacle of holiday lit vehicles, along with a special performance comprised of Washington Park School’s Glee Club, Junior Chorus, Junior Band, and Senior Band. The performance included “All I Want For Christmas,” “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” and a special musical number of “Sleigh Ride,” among other holiday favorites.

According to Principal David Bower, the students began preparing in September and continued up to this month.

“I thought the children did a fantastic job, and it’s great to have them back playing live for the family and friends in Totowa after the pandemic,’  Bower said.

Afterwards, Mayor John Coiro, with a little help from Santa, lead the countdown to the lighting of the spectacular pine tree on the front lawn.

The tree has special meaning this year, according to Mark Monteyne, Recreation Director. Local resident Darlene Walsh said the town originally had an oval/medal tree that did not appear to look very festive. But with Walsh’s late daughter’s love of the Christmas season, they knew the current tree just wouldn’t do.

“Our daughter Kathleen would have been upset with that tree,” said Walsh. “So in 2013, around ten years after her passing, my husband Kevin Walsh, former Assistant Chief, Chaplain and President of the Totowa Borough Fire Department, donated this pine tree in her memory. He passed away in 2020.”

Monteyne believes the tree is poised to grace Rockefeller Center one day.

Let it grow,” he said. “I believe it will get there one day.”

Councilwoman Debbie Andriani also commented on the evening’s events.

“It’s the most wonderful time of the year, so it is only fitting to have the community come together and celebrate the holiday season,” she said.

Coiro said the borough has been holding an annual tree lighting ceremony for decades but due to the pandemic, it needed to be streamed last year.

“It’s so inspirational to be back live and see and hear the school choir.  A joyous way to kick off the holiday season,”  he added. 

Photos courtesy of Mark Monteyne