The Metuchen Area Chamber of Commerce announced that activities are planned to kick off the holiday season. There will be the annual Winter Festival Parade at 2 p.m. Nov. 30 at the corner of Brunswick Avenue and Main Street in Metuchen. Many sponsors will bring this event to the community, featuring music, floats, balloons, children and Santa. The parade will end at the Pearl Street parking lot. At the conclusion of the parade, a visit with Santa and hot chocolate will be provided at the Metuchen Senior Center. If weather is questionable, call the Chamber of Commerce office at 732-548- 2964 or visit the chamber Web site at www.metuchenchamber.com after 11 a.m. for an announcement.
The annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony will be held at the Old Franklin School, 491 Middlesex Ave., at 7 p.m. Dec. 5. There will be entertainment featuring instrumental performances, singing and dancing in the parking lot of the Masonic Lodge, 483 Middlesex Ave. There will be hot chocolate, cookies and a visit with Santa.
The Borough Improvement League will have its annual Holiday House Tour tickets for sale that evening. The house tour will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 7 and will feature six Metuchen homes seasonally decorated. Complimentary refreshments, a raffle and holiday gift bazaar will also be held at the Old Franklin School on Dec. 7.
The Metuchen Area Chamber of Commerce would like to remind everyone to support local businesses by shopping in Metuchen this holiday season. Gift certificates are available in any denomination and may be purchased at the Chamber of Commerce office, 323 Main St.