Officials kicked off North Bergen’s annual Winterfest celebration with a parade down Bergenline Avenue Nov. 30. The town closed down 10 city blocks, from 85th to 76th Street, to make space for kids’ rides and games, as well as performances by North Bergen school choruses, photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, a petting zoo, food, and music.
“Winterfest is a tradition of over 20 years in North Bergen,” said Mayor Nicholas Sacco. “It is a tradition for our community and it kicks off the holiday season for everyone. I would like to thank all the residents that came out and all the volunteers that made this winter celebration possible.”
The town also held a downtown Winterfest Dec. 6 in the Food Bazaar parking lot on 14th Street and John F. Kennedy Blvd.
“Last year, we got rained out,” said Commissioner Julio Marenco. “This year gave an even bigger and better turnout. This is one of the biggest things going on downtown.”
The township has been working on bringing more events to the downtown area, since many of North Bergen’s larger events often happen uptown.
The town’s Schripps European Bread donated 700 pretzels for free distribution at the two sites.
Hannington Dia can be reached at hd@hudsonreporter.com
