Elmwood Park held its annual “Holiday Stroll” event Friday, treating residents to dance performances, a socially distant visit with Santa, and Christmas tree lighting at the village’s circle park in the center of town.
Mayor Angelo “Skip” Saviano, who lit the holiday lights, said around 500 residents attended the event throughout the night.
“A lot of families showed up. It was very successful,” Saviano said. “…People are very happy that we had something for for the children, and the weather was nice. It was clear out, a little crisp.”
The components of the outdoor event were spaced out with different stations to maintain social distancing, Saviano said. The local Turning Point Dance Studio set up four dance sets with holiday performances. Saviano said parents came to see their children perform and many walked around and took pictures in front of the decorations.
Santa Claus, who arrived on a firetruck, passed out candy canes and other gifts for kids.
“I think the spirit was there, I think people felt like this is the beginning of the Christmas season,” Saviano said. “And it was a good kickoff for the holidays.”
