DELMAR – On Saturday, December 9, the Bethlehem Police Department will be hosting the 4th Annual Holiday Lights in the Park Event from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Elm Avenue Park – 261 Elm Ave.
“This is about the true meaning of the holiday season and community partnerships,” Bethlehem Police Chief Gina Cocchiara said. “This event is unique as we are able to bring residents, businesses, organizations and first responder agencies together for a fun night and in return give back to the community.”
Local police, fire and EMS agencies, Town Highway Department and local businesses and organizations create displays along the park route. Santa will be there to say Hello and collect letters from children.
During the COVID 19 Pandemic the Holiday Parade that normally occurred at the Four Corners was canceled. At that point Bethlehem police officer Amanda Mueller was inspired to create the now annual event for the community to bring people together.
Many members of the police department volunteer their time and each year the event has grown, both in the number of attendees and participating businesses and organizations.
Each vehicle will receive a box of 4 cupcakes made by Perfect Blend Bakery along with hot cocoa packets and candy canes to have at home. This is a free event made possible by community partners.
“We accept donations of unwrapped toys, nonperishable food items, and pet care items that are then distributed throughout the community before the holidays,” Cocchiara said. “Attendees often make cash donations which are then used to purchase gift cards to local grocery stores and Walmart and then donated.”
Admission to the event is free and donations of unwrapped toys, pet care items, or non-perishable food items are greatly appreciated. These items will be distributed throughout the community to families in need.
Since the inception of the event, the Bethlehem Police Department, along with the Bethlehem Lutheran Church, the Town of Bethlehem Food Pantry, the Bethlehem Central School District, and other community organizations have been able to assist hundreds of families.
According to Cocchiara, so far, Perfection Roofing, Backyard Sheds Co, Advantage Tree Service, Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Legacy Church, Masonic Lodge, JF Frankovic Trucking, Weisheit Engine Works, Redwood Landscape, Sevenzocks, Troop 5010 (Girl Scouts), Troop 75 (Boy Scouts), Delmar Bethlehem EMS will be in attendance this year.
Businesses/organizations who have donated money, products or provided discounts but will not be in attendance are Perfect Blend Bakery, SABIC, Walmart, Lowes, Police & Fireman’s Insurance Company, J&S Towing, Friends of Scott Bendett, and Craig Sluers for Highway Superintendent.