Oceanside community convenes for Elf Tag

Two local families received a big surprise this weekend when the annual Elf Tag event touched their doorsteps Sunday evening.

The tradition began seven years ago in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. Local residents gather to spread holiday cheer to families undergoing a challenging time, such as a loss or illness of a family member.

Roughly 200 participants first gathered at St. Anthony’s Church to learn the names of the families and practice the songs as a group. Then, they joined the caravan to bring Christmas cheer to the chosen families.

Families were nominated based on a recent hardship, then surprised with a visit from the crowd bearing gifts and singing carols. One family received a personalized calendar of gift cards. The other received wrapped gifts donated by the participating community members.