Residents gathered at New Hyde Park Village Hall on Saturday evening, Nov. 29, for the village’s annual tree lighting, a festive tradition blending holiday cheer and community spirit.
The event began with a moment of silence led by New Hyde Park Mayor Christopher Devane, honoring two National Guardsmen from West Virginia shot while serving the country: 20-year-old Sarah Bextrom, who was killed, and Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, who remains in critical condition.
“These are two volunteers who volunteered to protect other citizens of the United States,” Devane said. “We pray for Sgt. Wolfe to pull through as he fights his battle and his wounds.”
Devane also highlighted the village’s partnership with Tricia’s Kids, a charitable initiative honoring Patricia Di Maria, who loved Christmas and helping children. After Di Maria’s death her children used the money they saved for her Christmas gift to buy toys and donate it to children in need. From there, Tricia’s Kids was born.
Residents were encouraged to donate new, unwrapped toys for underprivileged children through Dec. 15.
“I ask you to please do that during this spirit of Thanksgiving, the spirit of Christmas, to give back as a community,” Devane said.
Throughout the evening, residents enjoyed performances by the New Hyde Park Memorial Band and the New Hyde Park Chamber of Commerce Choir, who performed a mix of traditional holiday melodies throughout the evening. Adding to the fun for children, clowns dressed as elves roamed the crowd, providing face painting, balloon animals, and magic tricks.
Local officials joined the celebration, including Nassau County Legislator Scott Strauss, North Hempstead Town Supervisor Jennifer DeSena, Council Member Dennis Walsh, State Sen. Patricia Cananary Fitzpatrick, Town of Hempstead Council Member Thomas Muscarella, and Town Receiver of Taxes Janine Driscoll. Each spoke about community spirit, the importance of passing down family stories, and the joy of giving during the holidays.
Sirens lit up Jericho Turnpike as Santa Claus arrived via the New Hyde Park Fire Department to greet boys and girls and join in the tree lighting fun.
Honored to flip the switch was New Hyde Park Fire Chief Tom Farina and his family, recognizing his years of dedicated service to the community.
“He’s demonstrated leadership, hard work and dedication, and we acknowledge that here in the village of New Hyde Park, he’s led the greatest fire department there is for the past four years,” said Devane.
Residents counted down from 10 before the tree burst to life in sparkling lights.
“Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays,” Devane said after the village lit up.
The 2025 tree lighting also marked the final year the event was held in the basement of Village Hall. Next year, Devane said, the celebration will move to a new community center.
