Macomb Kicks Off 2012 Holidays With Nov. 28 Tree Lighting and After Glow Event

It’s a holly, jolly, township event. Macomb officially kicks off the holiday season Nov. 28 by illuminating the township’s evergreen outside town hall during the eighth annual Tree Lighting and After Glow event. 

The evening, sponsored by the Parks and Recreation Department, starts at 7 p.m. with Santa’s arrival on a firetruck, caroling, and the tree lighting. A first grade student from Sequoyah Elementary School – whose name will be revealed at the event – was selected to help Santa light the tree. 

After, the free celebration moves indoors to the Recreation Center, where families will receive a special 3D holographic holiday glass.

Looking for more seasonal activities? Check out Patch's Holiday Event Guide

“When the spectator looks through them (the glass) at the Christmas lights, they will see Santa images,” said Michelle Duda, Parks and Recreation program leader. 

Guests can also make reindeer food and other crafts, enjoy hot chocolate and cookies, sing Christmas “carol-o-kee” and visit with Santa that night. There will also be a juggler, various holiday characters to meet, and other activities, such as coloring and glitter tattoos. “The decorations are extra special that night, including a 20-foot Santa Claus,” Duda added. 

Make sure to bring a new, unwrapped toy or gift card with you as the township is again gathering items for the Macomb Charitable Foundation, a local nonprofit that provides help to homeless and other needy Macomb County families. The collection begins at this event and continues through Dec. 20. Parks and Recreation will have labeled collection boxes at the Recreation Center, Town Hall building, and the four fire stations. 

“This event is a tradition for many local families, we trust they will be back and hope that others will start a new tradition and join us this year! Our event is always the first Wednesday after Thanksgiving – so people can know when to expect the event every year,” Duda said.