Cynics might sniff that the true spirit of the holiday season is relegated to the past.
Clearly such Scrooges have never attended Sellersville’s annual Winterfest.
Filled with family-friendly fun and seasonal good cheer, the borough’s 20th annual Winterfest celebration occurred the evening of Dec. 4, with residents, businesses and visitors from out-of-town all contributing to a festive atmosphere that resonated with traditional small-town Christmas charm.
“It’s a special event that brings the people of the town together to celebrate the season, to celebrate Sellersville, and to give thanks,” said Lois Dodson, a Sellersville Borough Councilwoman.
The festivities kicked off with live music from a brass band and a ceremonial tree lighting at the Sellersville Fire Hall, where hundreds flocked for the fun. After opening remarks and a prayer, there was a holiday music sing-along that was punctuated by the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus on a fire truck.
Children visited with the Clauses for pictures at the fire hall, where children could also partake in crafts and enjoy refreshments.
Still, there was entertainment to be had throughout the borough thanks to participating businesses, churches and more.
The Sellersville Museum offered attendees the opportunity to experience its Christmas Tree Forest exhibit. Sellersville Theater was showing “The Grinch That Stole Christmas” for free, and providing refreshments.
St. Paul’s United Church of Christ was hosting a Caribbean-themed Christmas with steel drums, while St. Michael’s Evangelical Lutheran Church was showcasing a live Nativity.
Kristen Brown, of Telford, saw a posting about Winterfest on Facebook.
She decided to check it out with her son Caden, age 2. She was glad that she did.
“It’s a cool event,” she said. “We had some apple cider and cookies, and are looking forward to seeing the Grinch at the theater.”
Sharon Galla echoed the positive sentiment. She was attending with her husband, Nate, and two young children. “Santa Claus, the tree lighting, the Grinch – it’s just a great family-friendly event,” Galla said.
One down note to the fun night was that trolleys that had been expected to shepherd attendees around town never came.
“The former trolley service provider no longer has trolleys and the company contacted to provide them this year failed to do so,” the borough said in a statement. “This was a disappointment to all and an embarrassment to those of us who organized this event. We appreciate everyone’s understanding and patience and trust that a good time was had by all who came out to join us.”
The borough also thanked attendees for their generous donations to the local food pantry at F.I.S.H.
