PRIME SEASON
Season’s greetings Brian J. Lowney
For many people the holiday season marks a special time of the year filled with beautiful memories, joy-filled celebrations with family and friends, and time-honored traditions.
During this magical time of the year, perhaps it’s time to recreate treasured recipes, reach out to folks in need of positive affirmation or a cup of tea or coffee, and bring some joy to the community. Here are a few simple and inexpensive holiday suggestions on how you can add some sparkle to the holidays! While many cities and towns throughout the South Coast are determining seasonal holiday plans, one community event for folks of all ages is set for December 4 and shouldn’t be missed. Swansea’s Holiday in the Village began in 2016 as part of the year-long celebration commemorating the town’s 350th anniversary. It has become a much-anticipated evening that brings together people of all ages together for neighborly fun and entertainment.
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At the Veteran’s Memorial Green, visitors are welcomed with a vintage inspired “Season’s Greetings” sign. After parking, visitors stroll to the beautifully lit Swansea Dam waterfall with a large cheerful wreath on display. Main Street is closed to traffic all the way to Elm Street, allowing folks to enjoy hundreds of luminarias prepared by the Boy Scouts. The Case High Band kicks off the festivities and gathers with attendees for the tree lighting ceremony. After the loss of the tree at the Junior High last year, a new one was planted and cared for by the Highway Department in honor of John McAuliffe, Swansea’s late town administrator whose playful rendition of “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” was enjoyed by guests at the Swansea Free Public Library that evening. During this holiday event, delicious cookies and hot
S ou th C oast P r ime T imes
N ov ember /D ecember 2021
M ya Doyle toasts a marshmallow for s’mores at S wansea’s Holiday in the Village
chocolate can be found at Fire Station #1, provided by volunteer Fire Department members. Face painting, a magic show, crafts, and the touch-a-truck activities keep everyone busy. Each year, the Girl Scouts bring a new activity for everyone to enjoy. Holiday readings and crafts at the historic library are also a treat. Strollers will also be invited to visit The Stevens Home, rarely open the public, and will be welcomed at Stony Creek Farms, where a petting zoo and hay wagon rides add to the fun. During the family-oriented evening, Christ Church is at the heart of the celebration. A joyful choral concert in the church is a wonderful way to feel the spirit of the season. Next door at the hall, cookies will be decorated and children can enjoy time visiting with Santa Claus while holiday tunes play. Guests will enjoy a
beverage and a light snack and share holiday greetings with friends and neighbors. “Each year the event has grown, with more activities and attendees,” says Joyce Moore, coordinator of Holiday in the Village. “It is a magical evening that brings our community together,” Moore adds. “Keep an eye out for information on the Holiday in the Village Facebook page and the town’s website. “Hold the date and come to enjoy the fun on December 4!”
Finding Santa For folks who don’t believe in Santa Claus, you haven’t met “Santa” Joe Dawicki from Mattapoisett who was called five years ago to bring smiles and goodwill to his community because he has Christmas magic in his heart. “Each year my skills are honed when I receive Top Secret instruction from Jolly old St. Nicholas,” shares the
