Wrapping up holiday traditions and making New Year’s resolutions was the mission of the hundreds of party-goers Saturday night at Main Square Park.
The customary New Year’s Eve Fireworks Display found community residents – as well as those traveling from far distances – wrapped up in heavy coats, pajamas and blankets to enjoy the colorful display.
“Our whole family is here, 10 in all,” said John Garton, of Highland, as they gathered on the gazebo steps. “We come every year; wouldn’t miss it for the world.”
The town’s cap to 2016 has been offered at the park for more than 20 years, according to Dawn Wolak, of the Highland Council of Community Events. “It’s been popular for many reasons,” she said. “It’s local, you can come as you are, and it’s free.”
Indeed, the causal dress code appealed to many.
“We live just down the street and walked down here dressed in our pj’s,” said Don Harris, of Highland. “The grandkids think it’s hilarious that we all did this. We are making quality family time tonight.”
The New Year’s Eve visit to the park was a first time event for Sharon Newsome, of Calumet Township.
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“I heard from friends that this was the place to be on New Year’s Eve and wanted to find out for myself,” she said, as she met with friends near the concession stand. “Now I see what they were talking about – this is a fun, safe, atmosphere and everyone is enjoying themselves.”
Jason Kerrigan of Munster came with his 5-year-old son, Jason Jr., to watch the fireworks.
“My parents brought me here when I was young,” he said. “And I wanted my son to have the same fun I had.”
Since its inception, the annual get-together at Main Square Park has never lacked for visitors, no matter the weather.
Although the view may not have been as clear as if watching the show from the park’s gazebo, some people chose to stay in their warm cars, parking along Highway Avenue and Ridge Road.
“We’ve got two sleeping babies and a senior citizen that didn’t want to brave the cold,” said Michelle Pennington, of Highland, as she watched the activities from her car parked in the park’s north parking lot. “But that’s OK. Next year we’ll be out there with the rest of them.”
Sue Ellen Ross is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.