By Nicole M. Wells, Special Writer
JAMESBURG — “O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, thy candles shine so brightly.” The familiar lyrics of the traditional German carol, “O Tannenbaum,” call to mind a brilliantly lit evergreen tree, glowing in the winter darkness.
While the fleeting glow of candlelight may have been replaced by long lasting, energy efficient LED bulbs, the idea of decorating an evergreen with gleams of light remains the same.
The public is invited to come out and celebrate the holiday season with neighbors, family and friends at the borough’s annual tree lighting event on Wednesday, Dec. 5, at 6:30 p.m. at Veteran’s Park, behind the Jamesburg Hardware Store.
The Presbyterian Church Bell Choir, Mt. Ararat Children’s Baptist Church Choir and the Youth Singers from the Spotswood Academy of Music are scheduled to perform during the event, according to organizers.
According to Borough Councilman Barbara Carpenter, who also serves as the chair of public events, all event entertainment acts are volunteers.
Sir Ives Caterers will be providing free hot chocolate, and hot popcorn will be provided by the Jamesburg Hardware Store, Ms. Carpenter said.
Making a special guest appearance and arriving via fire truck, Santa Claus will be providing treats for the children, who will be able to trim the tree with free ornaments after it is lit.
This year’s tree will be lit by hundreds of multicolored LED lights, hung over the course of several hours by Division of Public Works employees, Ms. Carpenter said.
”Our tree lighting event has been so successful,” Ms. Carpenter said. “The crowds keep getting larger and larger.”
Last year, a couple hundred people attended the event, according to Ms. Carpenter.
Parking is available on the streets surrounding the park and many people walk over, she said.
Officers from the police department will be present, directing traffic, and the first aid squad will be on site to respond to any medical emergencies, according to their respective departments.
Sheet music will be handed out to members of the public and the evening will culminate with the singing of holiday songs.
”It’s certainly a special, happy time for children and adults alike and a perfect time to begin the holiday season together,” Ms. Carpenter said. “Especially after Hurricane Sandy, people need some celebration.”
The rain date for the tree lighting is Wednesday, Dec. 12. The time and location remain the same.

