Community League of Garden City South annual tree lighting

Neighbors throughout the Franklin Square and surrounding communities gathered for the Community League of Garden City South’s sixth annual community Christmas tree lighting on Dec. 2.

Community members got together at Garden City South Park in West Hempstead last weekend.

Kids got to meet with Santa, who was escorted by the Franklin Square and Munson Fire Department, during the holiday tradition. Holiday characters like the Grinch, a gingerbread man, reindeer and others milled about to mingle with families as well.

For any children who hadn’t mailed their letters to Santa yet, his mailbox was open at Garden City South Park last weekend for kids to send him an envelope.

While residents were able to spread holiday cheer at the event, the organizers hosted several charitable efforts during the tree lighting.

The Community League of Garden City South partnered with the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2718 and auxiliary for a food drive to benefit the Nassau County Veterans Services Food Pantry. The community league also hosted a Toys for Tots toy drive and supported “Friends Who Give” with a donations table to help benefit local families.

Attendees also got to participate in raffles and grab refreshments during the festivities.