Community Corner

Annual Tradition Gets New Home at Howell Municipal Building

Christmas Tree and Menorah Lighting Dec. 11

For many years residents of Howell have rung in the holiday season with the annual Christmas tree and menorah lighting at the old Town Hall on Preventorium Road. 

With the township moving to the new Municipal Building on Route 9 Director of Community Relations Steven Fecher said the annual tradition will get a fresh start in the new location as well.  

The event is scheduled for Dec. 11 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. and will include many popular features that residents have known in the past. There will be music and singing, hot drinks and snacks and of course a visit from Santa. A portion of the grass in front of the building will also allow the event to continue to have the popular petting zoo younger residents have come to know and love.

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Fecher said there had been consideration of holding the event at the old location but several factors contributed to the move. One big complication was the fact that the tree that had traditionally been lit was destroyed by Hurricane Sandy. 

This year a fresh cut tree will be used but Fecher said he hopes future years will have a planted tree that can become a new tradition for the township. 

Find out what's happening in Howellwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

After the tree is lit and Santa arrives the members of the council will be going to the meeting room to conduct their regular monthly meeting. Fecher said the festivities will continue outside while the meeting is being held inside.

The new location continues the transition for the township and Fecher said it is an exciting change for the event. "You're starting from scratch where you're not doing the same thing," he said. "It's a different set up and a different location. It's exciting to revamp it a little."

Many of the festivities are being held in the building's parking lot,which will be blocked off from traffic, but Fecher said there will also be parking available for people who come to the event. Shuttle buses will also be provided from the Howell Commons Shopping Plaza near Dress Barn for anyone interested. 


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