The Merricks ring in the holiday season

Posted Friday, December 8, 2023 12:14 pm

One of the event’s littlest residents, Bennett McLafferty, who is only 6-months-old, got to experience his first visit with Santa at the Merrick Chamber of Commerce’s Santa visit on Dec. 2.

Tim Baker/Heraldphotos

Merrick residents Callum Ambrosio, 1, and Maddyx Ambrosio, 3, took their turn visiting Santa after he arrived by fire trucks for the holiday celebration.

Tim Baker/Heraldphotos

State Senator Steve Rhoads, Merrick Chamber President Ira Reiter, and other Merrick neighbors gather for a photo with Santa as part of the Merrick Chamber’s annual celebration.

Tim Baker/Heraldphotos

After arriving by fire truck, Santa took photos with residents — including the Stadnyck family from Merrick. Children Neave Stadnyck, 6, Allison Stadnyck, and Marin Stadnyck, 2.

Tim Baker/Heraldphotos

Ira Reiter, president of the Merrick_Chamber of Commerce, welcomed residents to the festive event on Dec. 2.

Tim Baker/Heraldphotos

Though cancelled due to inclement weather on Dec. 3, the annual Christmas tree and Menorah lighting at the Merrick gazebo was rescheduled for Dec. 10.

Tim Baker/Heraldphotos

The holiday season wouldn’t be the same without the Merrick Chamber of Commerce’s holiday celebrations. Two separate events take place in Merrick, which bring together residents to enjoy the festive happenings.

On Saturday morning, at the annual Santa Claus visit which is much anticipated by residents, Santa arrived via fire truck, with help from the Merrick Fire Departments Empire Hose Company No. 3. Along with photos, free candy and hot chocolate were served. Families and children kept warm, gathered inside the Merrick Golf Course Clubhouse for the event.

Though previously planned for last Sunday, due to inclement weather, the Christmas tree and Menorah lighting was postponed until Sunday, Dec 10. The event will take place at the gazebo at Merrick Ave and Broadcast Plaza, and the Christmas tree along with the Chamber’s giant menorah will be lit — celebrating the joy of the holiday season.

Following the evening’s events, refreshments will be served to those in attendance.

Visit MerrickChamber.org for more.

— Rachele Terranova

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The Merricks ring in the holiday season

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