Annual New Rochelle Ceremony Marks Holiday Season

NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. – New Rochelle residents Alica, Sophia and Isabella Lopez were among a huge crowd that turned out Thursday for the city's annual holiday lighting ceremony on Memorial Plaza.

Eli Gordon, New Rochelle Chamber of Commerce executive director helps present the lights during the city's annual holiday lighting ceremony Thursday.
Photo Credit: *Justin Stock*

by Justin Stock

11/30/2012 12:01 a.m.

“We came for the tree. It’s a tree for the city,” said Alica.

The event included a visit from Santa Claus, who handed out candy canes, and a menorah lighting, and was sponsored by the New Rochelle Chamber of Commerce, New Rochelle Parks and Recreation Department and the New Rochelle Downtown Business Improvement District.

Singers from the Song Catcher after-school program provided musical selections.

The event was attended by a cross-section of city groups, including Mayor Noam Bramson and several New Rochelle City Council members, city staff, various clergy and firefighters, as well as state officials.

Chamber Executive Director Eli Gordon said the event started the holiday season, and urged residents to shop locally.

“I want to wish you a happy holiday season. May we all find joy and peace in the world,” he said.

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