Wilton’s holidays are in full swing, kicked off this weekend with cheer and festivities for those who celebrate Christmas and Hanukkah.
Santa helped get things rolling on Friday night, Dec. 4 when he arrived at the Town Green, hitching a ride with Wilton’s Fire Department and escorted by the captains of the State Champion Wilton High School Field Hockey team, Jillian Mahon and Amanda Hendry. He was greeted not only by the rest of the varsity field hockey team and first selectman Lynne Vanderslice, but also dozens of awed boys and girls, who lined up for the full two hours to sit on his lap and tell him what they wanted for Christmas.
Here’s a fun video of him arriving; we loved that he recognized us (hopefully from reviewing the “nice” list)!
The Holiday Stroll’s first order of business, of course, was to light the town Christmas tree, which had been draped with all new white lights, thanks to the town’s effort with the Holiday Fund. Wilton’s retailers and real estate offices were open late and eager to greet residents during the two hour Stroll, offering refreshments and treats, and the streets were buzzing with activity.
Here’s a video of first selectman Lynne Vanderslice lighting the Wilton Christmas tree.
Sunday Dec. 6 it was time to celebrate the first night of Hanukkah with the lighting of the menorah on the Town Green. The menorah lighting is organized by the Westport/Norwalk Chabad and Schneerson Center. Led by Rabbi Levi Stone, Vanderslice helped light the menorah along with selectman Dave Clune and state representative Gail Lavielle. Attendees were treated to traditional potato latkes and Hanukkah gelt (chocolate coins) and festive music.
Earlier in the day, the Wilton Police and Fire Departments ran an incredibly successful toy drive for Toys for Tots. Inviting people down to Wilton Center outside of the Toy Chest, they had a police car open and asked for donations to “Stuff the Cruiser.” Judging by the photos, Wilton responded with generosity.