"This is one of the best weather nights we’ve had in years." Said Gary Friedle, New Britain Downtown District chairman. "The horse-drawn wagon is free, the stores stay open, it’s a great night in New Britain. This is our signature event during the holiday season, and it’s nice to see people come downtown."

 

As the New Britain High School Tropical Storm Band entertained the crowd with holiday songs, people stood in line for hot chocolate with mini-marshmallows, took carriage rides, and mingled with family and friends.

New Britain resident Shannon Stedman attends every year. "I have been coming out since I was a little girl. It’s turned into a family tradition and I enjoy the spirit of everyone coming out."

"I especially like the hot chocolate. It’s good."

The hot chocolate was provided by the Park and Recreation Department’s after-school program.

Erik Barbieri, acting recreation superintendent, said that the hot chocolate was a new addition to the festivities. "This is the first time we’re doing hot chocolate." Barbieri said. "We’ve been trying to get the after-school children to give back to the community." The middle-school students in the Exercise The Right Choice Program managed the hot-chocolate station.

Mayor Timothy Stewart opened the ceremony by commenting on the weather. "Last year it was freezing. Thanks to whoever brought this weather," he said.

Stewart appeared reluctant to refer to the tree as a holiday tree, instead of a Christmas tree. He said he had to maintain "political correctness."

Stewart then told the crowd to respect everyone’s culture and holiday celebrations "whatever they may be." Stewart said. "It doesn’t matter what you celebrate.

"These lights represent hope for peace. I wish you all a happy and healthy holiday season."

After Stewart stepped away from the podium, a man dressed as Santa stepped up to the microphone and led the countdown to the tree-lighting and in a flash the large green tree was filled with bright white lights.

The crowd cheered as the music of the NBHS Tropical Storm Band played again.

Alderman James Wyskiewicz and his family come out every year. "For me it’s been tradition. It’s a great way to start the season and brings a lot of people downtown."

At the conclusion of the ceremony at Central Park, the community was invited to attend the holiday concert at South Church on Main Street with the Main Street Singers and University Singers. The New Britain Public Library also sponsored a Festival of the Trees reception.

Franchone Fraser-Ben Reuben Bey may be reached at ffraser@newbritainherald.com