“Holiday Stroll” in the Wilton Center
Friday, Dec. 4, 5:30-7:30 p.m.: Join Santa Claus and the Wilton business community as the Wilton Chamber of Commerce kicks off the official start of the holiday shopping season. Beginning at 5:30 p.m., Santa will make his way into Wilton Center on a red sleigh ushered by the Wilton Fire Department. Breaking with tradition this year, Santa will be accompanied by the co-captains of the Wilton Girls Field Hockey State Championship Team, Jillian Mahon and Amanda Hendry.
While Wilton’s first selectman has traditionally ridden next to Santa, Lynne Vanderslice, who is newly elected to the town’s top spot, has chosen to wait on the Town Green with the other field hockey team members anxiously awaiting their arrival. (To read Vanderslice’s first message to residents, click here.) They’ll all light the tree and then residents are invited to share their wishes with Santa, who’ll have a special treat for youngsters in the gazebo. The Wilton High School band will provide the soundtrack of the night, showcasing their talent and holiday spirit.
Families are invited to stroll through town, which is decorated with new Christmas decorations, including lights, large red bows and Joy banners; and to visit Wilton’s shops and businesses, which are staying open late to welcome strollers with refreshments.
Menorah Lighting on the Town Green for the First Night of Hanukkah
Sunday, Dec. 6, 5 p.m.: All Wilton residents are invited to the annual lighting of the Hanukkah menorah on the Town Green. This year, the menorah is being lit on the first night of Hanukkah–Hanukkah begins at sunset on the evening of Sunday Dec. 6 and ends on Monday, Dec. 14.
Hosted by the Schneerson Center of CT, the menorah lighting will feature live holiday music, chocolate gelt coins, dreidels and other fun holiday giveaways. Free and open to all, it’s a family-friendly event geared to all ages.
Wilton Library Holiday Art Program
Saturday, Dec. 5, 2-3:30 p.m.: The Wilton Arts Council and Wilton Library are partnering for a seasonal holiday craft program. According to materials from the library, “In this program, local artist Denise Susalka will help children create beautiful ornaments that honor their different holidays.”
The program is for children Age 5-years-old and older; registration is required via the Library website. (The program is currently full, but the Library is accepting waitlist registration.)
Painted Cookie Color-A-Menorah Cookie Event
Saturday, Dec. 5, 12-4 p.m.: Custom cookie bakery The Painted Cookie is hosting a Color-A-Cookie event for Hanukkah. Only $5 per child to color their own Menorah Cookie to celebrate the holiday. Owner Susan Schmitt will also have plenty of her nut-free cookies out for sale as well.