Warwick Valley Gardeners decorate Railroad Green for 2019 Home for the Holidays

Once again members of the Warwick Valley Gardeners decorated Railroad Green and the planter to kick off the holiday season.

And on Friday evening, Nov. 23, a large crowd of local residents gathered on the Green to witness the annual lighting event.

The ceremony began with traditional Christmas carols like Jingle Bells and Silent Night sung by members of the Meistersingers and Treble Choir.

This year, the Warwick Valley Gardeners selected “Peace on Earth,” as the theme for its Winter Project.

Laurie Unick served as chair of the event and Nancy Arthur, president of the Warwick Valley Gardeners, served as emcee.

Village of Warwick Mayor Michael Newhard, who usually participates in the ceremony, was unavoidably not present this year due to an earlier commitment.

However, Town of Warwick Supervisor Michael Sweeton was invited to say a few words.

“On behalf of Mayor Newhard,” he said, “I want to thank the Warwick Valley Gardeners, not only for this wonderful holiday display we are about to light but for all of the beautiful gardens they plant and maintain across our town. It takes a lot of hard work and volunteer hours and it is so appreciated. I want to also thank the amazing Meistersingers and Treble Choir for serenading us with their beautiful voices.

"This transformation of the Railroad Green," Sweeton added, "kicks off our holiday season, a magical time in our beautiful valley, one to enjoy time with family and friends and to count our blessings for this very special place we call home. “

Established in 1992, the Warwick Valley Gardeners Club is a member the Federated Garden Clubs of New York State, Inc. and the National Council of State Garden Clubs.

- Roger Gavan