Herald Neighbors

Lynbrook, East Rockaway ring in the holidays with festive celebrations

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Spirits were bright and the holiday spirit was in the air as East Rockaway and Lynbrook each hosted holiday celebrations last week.

In East Rockaway, Atlantic Avenue and John Street were transformed into a winter wonderland for a three-hour spectacle on Dec. 6, which culminated in the lighting of the Christmas tree. Ray Kerr and the Elementary School chorus set the mood with festive holiday tunes, while Branch Out and the Dance Space each provided entertainment with their performances.

“On behalf of myself and the entire village board, I would like to express our thanks for all the participants in our annual Christmas tree-lighting," Mayor Bruno Romano said, "from the singers to the gingerbread house entrants.  I’m sure that all the children enjoyed their visit with Santa Claus and don’t forget, register to enter in our 2019 community-wide house decorating contest. The board and I would like to wish all the residents of the village a very Merry Christmas, Happy Chanukah and a healthy and happy New Year." 

The East Rockaway Junior Fire Department served hot chocolate and there were plenty of food trucks and craft vendors. Several young attendees participated in the gingerbread house contest and decorated ornaments, and the festivities were highlighted by a visit from Santa Claus.

Santa was plenty busy locally last week, as he also made an appearance at Lynbrook’s Winter Celebration on Atlantic Avenue on Dec. 8. Though the event was pushed back from Dec. 1 because of rain, the holiday spirit shone bright in the village as dozens of residents hit the street to take in the event.

Trees along Stauderman Avenue were decorated in bright, colorful lights, guarded by large toy soldiers, and the crèche was displayed brightly beneath the Christmas tree, which was adorned with bright white lights.

On Atlantic Avenue, patrons sipped on hot chocolate and enjoyed treats while taking in the many vendors and displays. A small Ferris wheel was lit up in Christmas lights, and residents of all ages visited Santa’s house and met Frosty the Snowman. Young dancers from the LRC Elite Dance team and the Lynbrook High School kick line team dazzled the audience with their performances.