Verona keeps up 27-year tradition with Christmas in the Village

Craig Bakay | Dec 11, 2019

For the first time in its 27-year history, the Verona Christmas in the Village tree-lighting ceremony was held indoors.

“With the weather this year, we thought we’d hold it indoors rather than have everybody have to dress up to go outside,” said Verona Community Association president Wayne Conway.

For years, the tree lighting was held at McMullen Park in downtown Verona but it turned out that the lights were killing the old Christmas tree in the park so it moved to the Lions Hall a few years ago.

But, Conway said, the Association is re-evaluating.

“The VCA will look at and assess the possibility of going back to our roots,” Conway said. “We’re looking at enhancing the program for next year and maybe even ways of returning to McMullen Park.”

Holding events at the Lions Hall does have advantages. For one thing, the kitchen is available and the Lions provided a nice spread including chilli and hot dogs, along with the popcorn and goodies.

“This is the second year the Lions have become more involved,” said Lions spokesperson Doreen Morey. “Last year we did it and this year we’re doing it together as a shared event.

“We’re very happy to join together as a community and by doing so, it maximizes the number of volunteers available.”

This year’s event featured the music of Jessica Weddon and Jon McClurg and the group Vocal Legacy.