Join the Fun at the 2019 New Providence Holiday Festival

Mia Fusillo, staff writer

This year, the annual New Providence Holiday Festival will take place on Friday, Nov. 29th. The event begins at 4:30pm and Santa will arrive at 6:00pm at Provident Bank on South Street. Such an event is a great opportunity for the community to come together and embrace the holiday spirit, no matter which holiday community members celebrate. 

The Holiday Festival will be led by the New Providence High School Marching Band and the New Providence Fire Department. The Marching Band will play classic holiday tunes, such as “Jingle Bells,” “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town” and “Frosty the Snowman.” 

“The holiday walk gives band members a special opportunity to make special memories for children and their families. The band gets the town into the holiday spirit and exemplifies the pride and class of New Providence,” says Kianna Barbarisi, a senior color guard captain in the band. 

The music and fun take place both on the move and while standing still — make sure you pick a good spot in town to stand and watch. The Fire Department will also transport Santa to the roof of Provident Bank via fire truck.

Santa Claus’s appearance on top of Provident Bank will be at 6:00pm and he will toss candy canes from the roof. There are multiple “stations” along the route of the Holiday Festival walk, including Provident Bank. It is a prime location to stay at since you would get to see the band up close, and also see Santa from the top of the bank. In addition to Santa Claus and the various groups within the parade, there are many sights to see as local businesses and organizations set up booths along the route.

It is important to arrive early if you want to get a great view on South Street. Overall, this event is a great experience for those participating in the walk in addition to those who come and watch the festivities. It is a great opportunity to build community spirit and ring in the holiday season after Thanksgiving. Make sure you dress warmly!