TENAFLY, N.J.—On Thursday, Dec. 5, Tenafly hosted its annual “Celebrating our Differences Together” Winter Parade and Party featuring many cultures and holiday traditions.
It was a spectacular community-wide event that brought together over 100 residents—family, friends and neighbors from every part of town.
The parade participants met at Oresko Park on Tenafly Road where they were greeted by Mayor-Elect Mark Zinna and his wife Simone, as well as Councilman Jeff Grossman, Tenafly Chamber of Commerce President Christine Evron, and Rev. Lynne Weber of Church of the Atonement. Sparky, the Tenafly fire dog mascot was also on hand to pose for pictures.
“I think it’s fabulous to celebrate the holiday together,” said Zinna. “It’s great that we are doing this as a community!”
Grossman commented, “I love the town spirit and the seasonal spirit all coming together!”
“I love this parade!” added Parade Marshal Hercules Invictus, a local man who celebrates Greek mythology and supports the chamber of commerce. “Here in Tenafly, we celebrate our differences, and this parade expresses that very important theme.”
Shortly after the crowd had assembled, there was a loud refrain of “oohing” and “aahing,” as a huge Tenafly fire engine pulled up to the park with its lights flashing and Santa perched on top waving to everyone.
The group proceeded to march behind the fire engine down Washington Avenue to Huyler Park, where holiday entertainment and refreshments awaited. The entourage was guided by Invictus and his wife, Athena Victory, alongside Evron.
In addition to Santa’s old-fashioned means of transportation, the procession included a shiny yellow Honda from the Tenafly Honda dealership.
To ensure their safety crossing the streets, the parade participants were escorted by members of the Tenafly High School Key Club.
Tenafly’s holiday theme of “Celebrating our Differences Together” featured many religions and traditions.
Spectators were first entertained by the Tenafly High School Madrigal Singers directed by Emily Kwen. The spirited group of 36 singers sang a medley of favorite Christmas carols and Chanukah songs.
Rev. Weber gave a Christmas blessing and pediatric physician Asma Sadiq recited a Muslim prayer relating how humans have been created to be the best.
Sadiq also delivered a moving speech, emphasizing that “Now more than ever, all cultures and religions, both Eastern and Western, need to respect and honor and help each other and live in unity.”
As “Deck the Halls,” “Jingle Bells” and “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” resounded through the frosty night, party goers stayed warm with cups of hot cocoa provided by the Clinton Inn and cookies from Millers Bakery and Promenade Caterers.
Sparky and Santa gave the children gift bags filled to the brim with items for people of all ages— coloring books provided by PNC Bank along with magic markers donated by M&T Bank and candy canes and Chanukah gelt (gold wrapped chocolate coins) from the Tenafly Chamber of Commerce.
Each bag also contained a toothbrush, tooth paste and dental floss from East Madison Dental, a decorative book mark from Tenafly Orthodontic Associates and a pack of tissues from Friedberg Real Estate. Completing the haul, the New Jersey Department of Motor Vehicles added plastic wrist bands with a reminder not to text and drive and the New Jersey Water Environment Association provided degreaser spray for pots and pans.
Evron, who has been organizing the Tenafly Winter Parade and Party for eight years, was delighted with this year’s turnout. Wearing cheery holiday colors and bright red lipstick, she said, “Last year, it was bitter cold, so we had less people than usual, but this year is really great!”
Evron reiterated that she loves this holiday winter celebration because it brings together so many neighbors, and friends, families, and dozens of local business and restaurant sponsors.
“This event acknowledges the many religious roots that contribute to our livelihood,” she said.
In a dramatic conclusion to the holiday party, Invictus recited an Olympian Prayer:
“I call upon Heaven and the benevolent Powers that shaped us in the dawn of time and guide us still to bless this place, its people, and all that they hold dear,” he remarked. “May all be blessed with optimal wellness, with abundance and prosperity, with love and peace, with joy and fulfillment!”
