WESTWOOD, N.J.—Our headline for the event in 2019: Thousands Cheer Parade at Westwood’s Home for the Holidays.
This year—you guessed it—it’s a different story.
On Nov. 2, the Westwood Home for the Holidays Committee confirmed it’s cancelled the parade, which was set for Dec. 5, over the Covid-19 pandemic.
“We look forward to resuming the tradition of marching bands, dance troupes, costumed characters, floats, antique cars, and of course Santa, next year on Dec. 4, 2021,” said committee member Michael Fitzsimmons, owner of Westwood Art Gallery.
He added, “Our focus has always been on children of all ages who see the magic of the season, and we know that they will keep that magic alive in their hearts until next year. We wish all a safe, healthy, and thankful holiday season.”
Pascack Press learned separately that Santa Claus, who holds a place of honor at the annual parade and downtown revelry, which marks the unofficial start of the holiday season in the Pascack Valley, nevertheless would be making his traditional rounds from house to house.
This would have been Ray Arroyo’s first year presiding over the fun as mayor. His outgoing longtime predecessor, John Birkner Jr. said at the time that he looked forward to enjoying Home for the Holidays 2020 from Westwood Avenue.
Last year’s theme was “125 Years of Celebration.”
UPDATE NOV. 3: The Celebrate Westwood Committee has just announced a schedule of fun events for weekends in December that will be of delight to families. See our story here:
