The annual Wayne Tree Lighting Ceremony was held more than a month ago, but the warmth that the students in the group brought to the crowd on that chilly early December night is memorable.

The event was held in front of the municipal building. Attendees included Mayor Vergano, the Wayne Hills Chamber Choir, Mr. and Mrs Claus, and countless children with their parents. The event was kicked off by the Chamber Choir, which performed carols until Mayor Vergano arrived to light the tree. Once all the lights were on, the eager children lined up to tell Santa what they wanted for Christmas. After that they were given elf hats, provided by TD Bank.

Throughout the event, much needed coffee and hot chocolate was provided by Starbucks for freezing parents and their kids. After talking to Santa, some children stayed to watch the choir perform more carols. Eunice Park, a Wayne Hills Junior and chamber choir member, had this to say about the experience: “Despite the cold temperature, I’d definitely do it again; the smiles plastered on the faces of the children made it all worth it.”