Clark Winter Festival Rings in Holiday Season

Let it snow...let it snow...let it please just be snow from the snow machine designed to set the mood at the Winter Festival at the Municipal Building on Sunday, Nov. 28. The annual tree and menorah lighting, including lots of holiday activities, entertainment and food for the whole family, begins at 3 p.m. with the lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. sharp.

"This is a wonderful family event that is offered free to Clark residents by the township," said Recreation Director Ralph Bernardo. "I hope everyone will come out and take advantage of it. We are expecting over 2,000 people this year." The event is funded by donations from local businesses and comes together each year through the efforts of the Tree Lighting Committee under the direction of Bernardo.

You can expect to find your family favorites as well as some new surprises this year. As in the past, the popular horse-and-buggy and hay rides will parade up and down Westfield Avenue. The Girl Scouts from Troop 1411 will be offering face painting for the occasion. Children can also hop aboard or giddy up for train or pony rides, and there will be a petting zoo, too. Don't be surprised to find a new and "exotic" addition this year. Santa Claus is coming to town, also, (he's a sucker for a petting zoo) from 3:30-5:30 p.m., so don't forget to bring your camera to take your own photos with jolly old St. Nick.  

Throughout the afternoon a holiday band will play seasonal favorites while carolers stroll the premises. The choruses from both Arthur L. Johnson and Kumpf Middle School will perform in the upper gym along with the ALJ band. Puppeteers from the ALJ Puppetry Club will entertain young and old with showtimes at 3:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. in the lower gym. These students make their own puppets in class under the direction of art teacher Bryan Klimchak. And don't forget to check out the beautiful Christmas trees that have been donated and decorated by over 30 organizations from town. The trees will remain on display at the municipal building throughout the holiday season.

Yummy holiday goodies will be served in the cafeteria. Donuts, cider and water are all compliments of , with cookies donated by and candy apples, pretzels and coffee provided by Clark Recreation.