In the late 1990's and early 2000's when the kids were in secondary school, Dianne, Amos, Becca & I attended several Christmas tree lightings held at the Pelham Civic Complex. These events typically had performances by middle school and high school choirs [in which both children sang], performances of students at the ice skating school, an appearance by Santa driving the Zamboni out on the ice, and the lighting of a large Christmas tree.
Audience members who arrived early enough were given an ornament commemorating the event. I'm not sure when this tradition started, but the earliest one we have is from 1998 and the latest is 2003. Maybe we didn't attend the 2002 one; after 2003 our youngest Becca was no longer in high school, and we haven't returned in subsequent years.
The event continued in 2021, although changes have been made. For the first time, a parade on U.S. 31 was held. You can see the 2021 tournament below.
I wonder if anyone has a complete collection. And do other cities create these sorts of trinkets?
