Over 200 Kings Park residents gathered at Veteran's Plaza at the Kings Park Library for the Christmas tree lighting ceremony. Hosted by Kevin Dennis, owner of Professors Diner in Kings Park, he wore a Santa Claus hat and brought his own Christmas spirit to the audience. He thanked the Kings Park Fire Department, Police Department and the Smithtown Parks Department for helping set up the event.
Robyn Paola led the children from the Kings Park Middle School Chorus as they sung Christmas songs such as "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer," and "The 12 Days of Christmas." The Kings Park Royalette Kick Line squad performed a rockette-themed routine. Pastor Juhye Hahn of the Lucien Memorial Methodist Church gave a special blessing to everyone.  Food and hot chocolate was catered by Anderson's Deli and Catering.
Also in attendance were Charlie Gardner, President of the Kings Park Chamber of Commerce; Smithtown Councilman Robert J. Creighton and New York State Assemblyman Mike Fitzpatrick.
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 Santa Claus arrived on a fire truck provided by the Kings Park Fire Department. and handed out candy to the children in attendance. Hot chocolate helped to keep the crowd warm and spirits high.
"It's a wonderful way to kick off the holiday season," said Gardner. " They do a great job of getting everyone together."
