The Peru Gazette

Natasia & Adam McBrayer with Santa (1992)

By Donald McBrayer & Kathy Flynn

This coming Friday (December 2^nd), folks from every corner of Peru will come together to kick off the Holiday Season at the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. For over 40 years, wide-eyed children of all ages have gathered to rejoice in one of Peru’s most sacred traditions – The Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. Originally sponsored by The Lion’s Club, the ceremony was held on the corner near Holland’s Barber Shop (close to Peru Hardware) where boxes of candy were handed to children and caroling filled the air as hundreds would gather to rejoice in the blessings that living in Peru brings.

Around 25 years ago the town grasped the “reins” continuing the annual ceremony. Around that same time Mr. & Mrs. Santa Clause (John and Vicki Masella) began arriving each year via fire truck. This unique arrival by Santa continues to thrill children to this day.

Fifteen years ago the town transferred the responsibility to the Youth Commission. When the Youth Commission took over they began recognizing someone from the community who has either made significant contributions to the community or had the misfortune of an accident or illness by having them light the tree – for example in 2008 Brady O’Connell, a Peru youngster who underwent a successful third kidney transplant, officially lit the tree.

The Youth Commission also make preparations to welcome the abundance of families that come to see Santa by doing all the decorating, including setting up a variety of crafts for the children to work on during this exciting event.

This year the ceremony will be held at the Peru Gazebo in the Little Ausable Park, and will be followed by a chance to meet Santa (who arrives by fire truck at 7PM sharp) in the Peru Community Fellowship Center. The festivities include caroling, refreshments, crafts, and karaoke by Tim’s Tunes.

You can see a slideshow of last year’s ceremony by visiting: http://ryanjohn.zenfolio.com/p473634522/slideshow