LYNN — The city celebrated the start of the holiday season with its annual tree lighting ceremony and a “Halliday” fair at City Hall on Tuesday.
The event included performances of holiday tunes from the Lynn High School Band and Chorus and the St. Mary’s Chorus. During the band’s rendition of “Jingle Bells,” Mr. and Mrs. Claus made a grand entrance to greet the crowd.
While the tree lighting portion of the night was initially supposed to take place on the Lynn Common, it was moved indoors to the Lynn Auditorium due to the rainy weather. Mayor Jared C. Nicholson applauded the “quick thinking and resourcefulness” of everyone involved that allowed the city to continue the celebration.
“This is such an important moment in the year for us to come together and reflect on all that we have. To be able to stand up here with our amazing students that are creating the future that we all want and need to participate in,” Nicholson said.
Nicholson continued, “That’s what the season is all about. We’re grateful to be able to do that all together publicly here. Please know that this space is your space, and you’re welcome in these moments, and you’re welcome in every moment. Because we’re here for you and we wish you a wonderful holiday season filled with joy, warmth, (and) togetherness.”
Lynn Public Schools Interim Superintendent Molly Cohen spoke about what the holiday ceremony means for the community and the local students.
“The lights on the tree are a symbol of warmth and hope. Feelings that are emblematic of the holiday season. We are fortunate to have many shining lights in our schools. Talented students, committed teachers, and dedicated staff,” Cohen said.
Cohen added, “We are constantly striving to promote an environment of inclusion and belonging that manifests the warmth and hope we desire for everyone. My wish for all of you is a season filled with joy, blessings, and peace.”
After the students sang Happy Birthday to Mayor Nicholson, attendees took photos with Santa, dedicated cookies, sang carols, read free books, and participated in a craft fair with eleven local vendors.
The night concluded with performances from the Lynn Classical High School Dance Team, Cultura Latina Dance Academy, and the Toe Jam Puppet Band.
