Christmas Festivities, East and West

The holiday season is well underway and our neighborhoods have wonderful events going on to help ring in the Christmas spirit. Today we thought we’d highlight a couple of upcoming events for you.

Washington Square Park
This past Wednesday, the Washington Square Association held the 88th annual tree lighting ceremony in Washington Square Park. The festive event, which began in 1924, also included caroling and an appearance from Santa Claus. The 45-foot Christmas tree is lit between the hours of 4pm and 1am. If you find yourself in the area, make sure to stop by the beautifully lit tree under Washington Square Arch!

If you missed this event, but would still like to join in on the caroling fun, the Rob Susman Brass Quartet will return on Christmas Eve at 5pm to lead more caroling. Don’t know all the lyrics to your favorite songs? The Washington Park Association will be handing out complimentary songbooks! The association has been sponsoring caroling under the arch since its founding in 1906.

Tompkins Square Park
This Sunday, December 9th, the East Village will get a little brighter with the lighting of the Christmas tree in Tompkins Square Park. This year marks the 21st anniversary of the event and it will run from 4-5pm. The event is co-sponsored by the East Village Parks Conservancy and the Tompkins Square Park Neighborhood Coalition.