CNBNews

By Chris Concannon

After spending weeks getting ready for the event, Santa’s elves, disguised as Borough employees, made last-minute preparations for Bellmawr’s 10^th annual “Christmas In The Park.”

As a pre-winter breeze shifted the overcast sky to reveal the largest and brightest full moon in 15 years, two spare “sleighs,” on loan from the North Pole, took event-goers through a large cavalcade of fixed and inflatable holiday decorations.

Mayor Frank Filipek Sr. said an estimated 8,000 people took part in the three-day event Friday, Saturday and Sunday, December 12-14.

“This is the only event of its kind in the State of New Jersey which is free of charge,” Filipek said.

In addition to face-painting and visits with Santa himself, Baby Paws of Sicklerville was also on hand, providing a petting zoo and pony rides.

Encompassing almost the entire Recreation Centre complex, the sleigh ride course snaked its way through an ever-expanding trail, which grows from year to year.

Along with the Tree Lighting and Parade and Christmas In the Park, the Borough of Bellmawr sponsored a House Decorating Contest December 14-18.

Check back with this column in the end of year issue to see who won.