STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Jingle bells rang and lights twinkled Tuesday evening as Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella hosted the 11th annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Borough Hall in St. George.

Despite strong winds and temperatures in the low-30s, residents turned out in full force to mark the start of the holiday season. Families arrived bundled in scarves and mittens, gathering on the steps of Borough Hall before the program began. Children danced around, practicing for their upcoming performances, while parents snapped photos of the towering tree waiting to be illuminated.

“My favorite part of every holiday season is the Borough Hall Christmas tree lighting,” said Staten Islander Jaime Goldberg. “It’s so festive, and I make sure to come every single year.”

Attendees

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