By Shelley Smithssmith@salisburypost.com
The town of Spencer and its Hometown Holidays Committee held “Christmas in the Park” and a tree lighting ceremony Friday night at Library Park. Hundreds of adults and children attended.
Several choirs, churches and dance groups helped celebrate Spencer’s first official holiday tree lighting.
The Amadeus Youth Choir, Adam Broyles, Caroline Nance and the Spencer Children’s Community Choir provided holiday favorites. Steppin’ Out Dance Company and the Crescent Cloggers spread holiday cheer with their feet ó clogging, tapping and dancing along to Christmas tunes.
Central United Methodist Church members showed off a circus train and puppet performance for all to enjoy, focusing on the real reason for the season: Jesus.
Santa Claus made an appearance, arriving on a Spencer Fire Department truck.
“We think this year’s event was fabulous,” said Beth Nance, a member of the Spencer Hometown Holidays Committee. “The town of Spencer has been wonderful working with us, and we couldn’t ask for a better committee.”
Alice Suber, also a member of the committee, said there was definitely a bigger turnout than last year (which was held at Park Plaza), and a lot of it had to do with the move to Library Park.
“The location, advertising and other publicity really had a lot to do with this year’s success,” said Suber. “And once again, we had a great committee.”
“I think it turned out really nice,” said committee member Marla Gobble. “I hope everyone in town appreciates us using this beautiful park. It’s the first time I’ve ever been to a town event in this park.”
Nance said the Hometown Holidays Committee has only been around for two years, and planning for the event begins in January.
“We met almost every Monday for an entire year,” said Nance. “A lot of thought goes into this event.
“The main purpose of our group is to keep our community united. I’m thrilled with the crowd we had tonight. I think everyone had a good time.”
The official town Christmas tree was donated by Godley’s.
Eastern Star of Spencer provided free hot chocolate and coffee.