Grifton Tree Lighting

GRIFTON —  This year’s Tree Lighting in Grifton brought out a big crowd to witness and experience the new events the town had to offer.

Ayden-Grifton’s JROTC opened the ceremonies and Grifton’s Band followed with a few holiday songs to put people in the spirit before the tree lightint began.

Grifton’s Chamber of Commerce sponsors the annual event and this year, more events were held to allow kids more to do to start off the holiday season.

Tammy Ipock Jennette, of the chamber, organized most of the events and said that so far, citizens seemed pleased with the turnout.

Jerry English welcome everyone who came out before Mayor Tim Bright lit the Christmas Tree, which sits in front of the Grifton Depot.

Kinston resident Martha Pascal offered pony rides and the Grifton Police Department gave out Identi-kits.

Grifton’s Fire Department as well as Rescue Squad had events planned as well, but a rescue/fire call at the beginning of the lighting kept them away for most of the events. Jennette said the Fire Department was able to come back towards the latter part of the evening and offered the smokehouse to kids and as gave away fire hats.

Santa Claus was the most popular  guest for the night, as children lined up outside to greet him as he arrived on a Grifton Fire Truck. After exchanging hugs and handshakes with eager children, Santa took his place inside the Depot to take wishes from the kids. Santa gave away candy canes and books to the kids who visited with him. The candy canes were donated by the Dollar General.

The Grifton Library set up inside the depot as well displaying their books and later reading ‘The Polar Express’ to the kids.

Along with the Grifton Band, the Shimmy Shakerz also provided entertainment for those willing to brave the chilly night. Grifton’s Band and Orchestra also set up a table inside the Depot and were selling refreshments and gift items to raise money for an upcoming trip to Florida.

Grifton Piggly Wiggly provided coffee, which was given away to help warm up those in attendance.

Copyright 2003 - Town of Grifton - All Rights Reserved