MARLBOROUGH – The city welcomed the first day of December with its annual Home for the Holidays at Union Common.
Despite the occasional shower, hundreds turned out to welcome Santa Claus, enjoy performances by Marlborough High musical groups, check out animals in a petting zoo, and have some popcorn and hot chocolate.
The Marlborough High choir, directed by Caleb Whelden, kicked things off with a repertoire of holiday favorites.
By the time it finished, the city’s brand-new ladder truck had arrived at the common with a police escort. Santa rode shotgun, while Mayor Arthur Vigeant rode in the cab. As Santa made his way to his chair in front of the tree, he handed out candy canes to the crowd of children.
“It’s one of the best crowds,” he said.
As he sat and began to listen to children’s wishes, Vigeant counted down and lit the tree with help from his grandson and granddaughter.
The tree itself was “new;” it was transplanted from another part of the city earlier this year to replace the tree that was dying.
“It’s just one of those great nights,” said Vigeant in his final tree-lighting ceremony as mayor. He will step down on Jan. 1.
Across from the common, the First Church Congregational hosted Marlborough High’s symphony orchestra (directed by Angie Crockwell) and the jazz ensemble (directed by James Verdone) in its sanctuary.
According to those working the Recreation Department booth, more than 1,000 bags of popcorn were distributed, and the hot chocolate (courtesy of Kennedy’s) was popular, too.
Nearby, Cub Scout Pack 31 sold wreaths, while Enchanted Animal Parties brought in several farm animals—including a young cow named Morri and Adam the alpaca – for children to pet.
Upcoming events
“Christmas at the Farm” will be held Saturday, Dec. 9, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Peter Rice Homestead, 377 Elm St. Join the Marlborough Historical Society for this country Christmas and sit by the fire and enjoy muffins, warm cake and hot chocolate as well as coffee and tea. Enjoy this historical visit for only $5 per family.
Take a Polar Plunge to fight polio on Sunday, Dec. 17, from 10 a.m. to noon at Memorial Beach. The $20 donation will cover a long-sleeve tech shirt, a custom mug and hot chocolate to the first 80 who register.
The event is sponsored by the Advanced Math and Science Academy Interact Club, the New England Innovation Academy Interact Club, the Marlborough Interact Club and the Rotary Club of Marlborough.
To sign up or make a donation, visit https://www.marlboroughrotary.org/
