It was a rainy, windswept Saturday night, but Santa was still able to make his way to Oyster Bay on Dec. 6, with a big bag of toys for all the children. Despite the weather, the festivities still went on as planned with the annual Christmas tree lighting at the grandstand and songs of good tidings and cheer by the Yuletide Carolers who visited the area’s three churches.
The event was hosted by the Oyster Bay Chamber of Commerce and the theme of the night was “It’s A Wonderful Life,” with a guest appearance by Karolyn Grimes, who played Zuzu Bailey in the original movie. Grimes helped light the tree and held an autograph session at Long Island Picture Frame & Art Gallery.
“Santa arrived with a full police and fire escort and all of the kids got toys to take home with them,” said Dawn Riley, the event coordinator, who is on the Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. “Even with the horrific weather it was still a fun event.”
John Canning emceed the evening and recited the famous Christmas poem, “‘Twas the Night before Christmas” along with the OBEN chamber singers. The Gone Dancing dancers were not able to participate due to the slippery conditions.
New to the event this year was a pop-up Christmas market similar to the markets that appear in most European town center squares. Hot cocoa was available to help combat the cold weather along with some great shopping items for sale.
Local merchants also strung lights outside their places of business and offered wares to assist shoppers.
Politicians who attended the event included Town Supervisor John Venditto, Councilman Anthony Macagnone and Town Councilwoman Michele Johnson.
