Local Communities Host Sparkling Nights and Festive Lights
January 7, 2026
Some of the local boroughs hosted their annual tree lighting ceremonies bringing people together for joyful events.
On Sunday, November 30, people in Glen Rock gathered with family and friends to get pictures around the tree and see everyone’s special guest, Santa Claus.
Glen Rock’s community tree is right next two the statue honoring the Glen Rock Carolers. Photograph by Peyton Elmore
Santa Claus is outlined in lights while sitting with local children taking pictures with children. Cookies and hot chocolate Were also provided. Photograph by Peyton Elmore.
Glen Rock station 59 provided the escort for Santa Claus in one of their trucks. The event provided an opportunity to bring joy and smiles to the evening. Photograph by Peyton Elmore
Edward Johnson created the first strand of electric Christmas tree lights in 1882. Johnson was an associate of Thomas Edison, and he hand-wired 80 red, white and blue lights and wrapped them around his Christmas tree in New York City.
On Sunday, December 7, Shrewsbury Borough hosted their yearly Christmas tree lighting.
In Shrewsbury, many gathered around to enjoy the Christmas tree lighting and the good vibes. Community organizations provided food and hot chocolate, while the SHS jazz band performed festive music. Kids were laughing, adults were chatting, elves were passing out candy canes and smiles, while Santa and the Grinch took pictures with the kids.
Community members in Shrewsbury gather around the tree to watch the lights shine for the first time of this holiday season. Photograph by Layla HolmesSenior William Dumm, junior Joseph Brady, sophomore Natalie Schanberger, senior Camren Czahor and junior Therese Masafu sing a holiday song during the tree lighting ceremony in Shrewsbury on Dec. 7. The SHS jazz band provided entertainment for the event. Photograph by Layla HolmesSanta Clause makes his grand entrance via Jeep at the Shrewsbury tree lighting ceremony. Photograph by Layla Holmes
Senior Layla Holmes is a first-year reporter for the Courier. Holmes’s main goal is to bring awareness to subjects that are overlooked. She participates in the Improv club and has also worked in video production at her church.
Sohpmore Peyton Elmore is a second-year reporter on the Courier staff. Peyton’s main goal is to feel more comfortable and more confident with talking in front of the camera and getting her sources to feel more confident and comfortable as well. Outside of school, she babysits and works with photography and taking pictures for work.
