The Tabernacle Township Recreation Committee is hosting their three annual events
for the holiday, including a tree lighting, senior luncheon and light tour.
“Tabernacle is a small town which lends itself to an exceptional sense of community,” said committee member Brenda Locke. “This makes any number of these events even more special for our residents. Our goal is simple: We want to bring the community together to create lasting memories for our families and neighbors.”
The committee – including chair Mark LeMire and several community volunteers – works with a number of township organizations to create the holiday events, including the Tabernacle Historical Society, the Women’s Association, the Home and School Association and the Tabernacle Education Fund.
The Tree Lighting will take place at 7 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 1, at town hall. The lighting is an outdoor event that has been held for several years.
“At our first tree lighting held over 12 years ago, we were able to house residents inside town hall,” Locke recalled. “As the years passed the crowd grew larger and larger, with hundreds of attendees. Last year, the unofficial count was over 700 residents.”
The event is family friendly and will include a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus on a fire truck. The Seneca High School Chamber Singers will perform and there will be several stands with refreshments and activities.
“A midway is also set up for residents to visit local community groups, where they can learn more about the different organizations and how to get involved,” Locke explained.
The second event of the season is the senior luncheon for residents 60 and older from 1 to 3 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 10, at the Tabernacle fire house on Hawkin Road. The event will be catered by Just Between Friends Catering and food will be served by Seneca National Honor Society students.
The event is free, but an RSVP is required due to limited space. Reservations for a table can be made on the township website, www.townshipoftabernacle-nj.gov.
The final event of the season is the Tabernacle light tour, a walking tour around the
town to see decorated homes. A map and an online signup are additions to the activity this year.
“We are always looking for more of the community to come out and celebrate the spirit of the season, and as always thanks to everyone who makes this a great event with all their efforts,” LeMire noted, explaining the motivation behind the holiday events.
Locke said for the recreation committee, the events are a commitment.
“I take great pride in our town and our residents when I see all of us come together for these special events,” she said. “My goal is to see the smiles and goodwill of our families and friends, whether it is when I look out into the crowd at the tree lighting or those gathered for the senior dinner.
“It’s what makes our town so special.”
