Ocean County Christmas Tree Lighting Set For Dec. 5

The Toms River Christmas Tree 2017 (Photo courtesy Toms River Online)

TOMS RIVER – With Thanksgiving in the rear-view, Ocean County is preparing to officially welcome the holiday season with the Ocean County Christmas tree lighting on Wednesday, Dec. 5. Join in the festivities with the elves, sing along to some holiday music, and enjoy some hot apple cider during the event at 4:45 p.m.

This year’s event will also feature a brand new, 28-foot Norway spruce, adorned with thousands of LED Christmas lights. This Norway spruce was planted last May to replace the old Blue spruce that was used to light up the holiday season.

The tree will be a symbol of the Christmas spirit located at the corner of Hooper Avenue and Washington Street.

“We invite everyone to join us as we celebrate the season of giving and joy,” said Freeholder Director Gerry P. Little. “This is the largest tree the county has ever planted and I’m happy to say it’s ready for the holidays.”

The tree lighting will be held at the Ocean County Administration Building, 101 Hooper Avenue.

The Silver Bay Elementary School Chorus will provide a melody of holiday music for the annual event, beginning at 4:45 p.m. At 5 p.m. the tree will be lit by Cecelia Grace Kelly and Juliana Faith Kelly.

Everyone is invited to the Administration Building lobby following the tree lighting for hot and cold apple cider and Christmas cookies baked by the Ocean County Vocational-Technical Schools culinary arts students.