Woolwich Celebration The Woolwich celebration to open the beginning of the Christmas season was highlighted by Bagpiper Cliff Smith. (Photo Charlotte Boynton)

The town of Woolwich held its fifteenth annual Christmas yuletide sing-along and tree lighting ceremony Sunday evening, December 2. Over 100 people filled the old Nequasset Meeting house to enjoy and participate in the singing of traditional Christmas carols.

This year's celebration was dedicated to Bud and Betty Reed, two strong supporters of Woolwich activities, who were also selected to light the town's Christmas tree.

The group was entertained with musical selections which included: a fiddle solo by Charles Durfee; a duet by Clementine and Caddie Eberhart; Cliff Smith played Christmas in Scotland, on his bagpipe; the Woolwich Central School Chorus sang; and Doug Protsik entertained with a song he wrote.

Selectman David King received a standing ovation from those attending the event. King will complete about 12 years of service to the town as selectmen on December 31. He took the opportunity to thank the residents for their support over the years.

The annual yuletide message was given by Franklin Hayward. The group sing-along was led by Lloyd Coombs and Lynette Eastman, the town administrator.

The highlights of the event, most enjoyed by the children, and the adults, was the arrival of Santa Claus and the reading of the "Night Before Christmas" by Ann Pierson with the sound effects provided by Santa's helpers. After the arrival of Santa Claus the guest were treated to hot chocolate and cookies.

The event is hosted each year by the Woolwich Recreation Committee and the Woolwich Historical Society.