By Bonnie Adams, Managing Editor
File photo/Ed Karvoski Jr.
Westborough – Realtor Gary Kelley is partnering with the Westborough Economic Development Committee and Westborough Recreation Department to host the town’s fourth annual Holiday Stroll Sunday, Nov. 25, from 3:30-7 p.m. That evening, the Rotary Club of Westborough will also sponsor its annual Festival of Lights, which has become a favorite for the town’s families and a beloved way to start the holiday season. For many years, the club has, as a service project, provided funding for the lights.
At 3:30 p.m. there will be a special reading from “Mrs. Claus” (aka Maureen Ambrosino, director of the Westborough Public Library) at the library, 55 W. Main St. Families are then invited to peruse vendor booths along West Main Street which will be hosted by local businesses and nonprofits, while DJ Jack Lentine (a senior at Westborough High School) plays music. Many of the vendors will have activities for kids. There will also be food for purchase from Stonefire Pizza and Deans Concessions.
At approximately 5 p.m. a parade featuring cars and trucks bedecked with holiday lights (plugged into a portable generator in each vehicle) will travel down West Main Street.
The parade will start at School Street, travel down West Main Street and then circle the rotary.
Santa Claus will be at the very end of the parade, and then once at the rotary, he will oversee the countdown to the holiday lights being turned on throughout the downtown. He will then go to his special chair, where, assisted by Rotarians, he will pose for photos with children and hear their holiday wishes. (Parents should bring their own cameras.)
For Kelley, sponsoring the annual event which is always held on the Sunday of Thanksgiving weekend, is special for many reasons.
“I love Thanksgiving, it’s my favorite holiday – no gifts, eat too much, be with family, maybe watch some football,” he said. “And I like helping to preserve the ‘small town’ feel of Westborough.
“Closing down Main Street for this celebration makes it all the more special…it’s a great event for families. For me, it kicks off the season!”
Jennifer Kirkland, the Westborough Recreation Director noted that “this is one of my favorite events in Westborough as it really brings together so much of the community for a great afternoon of fun and holiday excitement!”
The stroll committee was very grateful, she added, for Kelley’s ongoing support.
“His dedication and enthusiasm surrounding this event is paramount to the event’s success every year,” she said. “Thank you Gary!”
“Be sure to visit Gary’s booth at the stroll as he always has a great give away and possibly another surprise this year!” she added.
Those wishing to be part of the parade should contact the Rec. Dept. at 508-366-3066 or [email protected].
