Chatham Emergency Squad’s 16th Annual “Snow Village”
Free, Family Fun – A Delight for Kids of All Ages
Submitted by Craig Alperowitz
It’s the most wonderful time of the year – the Chatham Emergency Squad proudly presents the 16th annual Winter Wonderland / “Snow Village” taking place throughout the month of December at its Chatham Borough building, located at 31 North Passaic Street.
The impressive display features more than 100 Department 56 model houses, cars and figurines with a working ski lift, ice skating rink and more set amidst the backdrop of a snow-filled winter wonderland and a model train running through the center of town. Children of all ages are invited to see the exhibit for themselves and find hidden treasures among the exhibition during the numerous open houses held at the Squad building.
“We’re excited to continue this annual holiday tradition which has helped spread holiday cheer to, quite literally, a generation of Chatham residents,” said Bryan McGookin, an active member of the Squad who has carefully maintained the private collection, which remains on loan by Mark Spinner (Spinner retired in 2018 after 40 years of service and relocated to another community). “Much like the arrival of Santa himself, the Chatham Emergency Squad “Snow Village” has become a fixture of our community, signaling the arrival of the holiday season throughout Chatham,” added McGookin.
The Winter Wonderland / Snow Village will be open from 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. every Saturday and from 12 p.m. – 3 p.m. beginning Sunday, December 1 and running until December 29, 2019. In addition, open houses will be held on December 2, 10, 18 and 26. The full schedule is available on the Chatham Emergency Squad website and special times and group tours can be arranged by submitting a request through the website.
The Chatham Emergency Squad is an all-volunteer organization funded almost exclusively by donations. CES never charges for its services. In 2018 they responded to over 1,200 emergency calls and provided free training in CPR to more than 400 residents, teachers, coaches and emergency personnel. To learn more, to donate or to volunteer, please visit chathamemergencysquad.org
