Christmas Comes To Towson With Annual Tree Lighting
TOWSON, Md. (WJZ) -- It's beginning to look and feel a lot like Christmas in Baltimore County. Hundreds poured onto the streets of Towson for the annual Christmas tree lighting on Friday night.
With the flick of a switch, Christmas has come to Towson. Crowds came together to celebrate the true meaning of the holidays.
"Bringing everyone together, you know? The community... Getting the kids involved in the community," one visitor said.
Santa also made a surprise visit, trading in his sleigh for a slicker ride. The kids had their lists all ready.
"I'm going to ask him for everything!" one little girl said.
Others already got their wish.
"A blessing. It's a blessing. I'm really having a ball," one woman said.
The tree lighting has been celebrated in Towson for decades.
"We're a large county, but when you see this, we're really operating on the finer principles of a small town," said Kevin Kamenetz, Baltimore County Executive.
A small town that includes a major university.
"To be able to see all the children and the families together to gather on the streets and enjoy themselves -- it's so important for the university to be a part of this," said Dr. Kim Schatzel, president, Towson University.
Friday night's tree lighting is just the start of a three week long Winterfest celebration in Towson.
"Next weekend, we're going to have Fire and Ice Night. We'll have about eight ice sculptures all over town and fire pits, we make smores, and we have 30 Christmas trees decorated," said Nancy Hafford, Towson Chamber of Commerce.
This is the 43rd year Winterfest has been held in Towson.
Winterfest also includes breakfast with Frosty and the Grinch and a Santa's workshop for the children.
