Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano has announced the dates of the following Nassau County holiday celebrations: “Candlelight Evenings” at Old Bethpage Village Restoration (OBVR) will take place December 9-11 and December 16-18, 2011, from 4:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Opening ceremonies on December 10th at 6:00 p.m. will include the traditional Christmas Tree Lighting and holiday musical performances; the Second Annual Nassau County Kwanzaa Celebration will take place on Tuesday, December 20th from 12:00 p.m. to1:00 p.m. at the Citadel of Hope, located at 107 James Burrell Avenue in Hempstead; and, the lighting of a 6 foot Menorah in Eisenhower Park on Tuesday, December 20th from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
“I invite all County residents to take some time from their busy schedules to come out and enjoy these wonderful holiday celebrations,” noted County Executive Mangano.
“Candlelight Evenings” at OBVR offer a Hallmark card setting of flickering candles inside the Village’s historic homes, along with 19th Century holiday decorations and entertainment, all set within the confines of a rural valley setting. Among the forms of 19th Century entertainment offered will be music, including a brass quartet and fiddlers playing popular seasonal tunes as well as performers by local schools and organizations.
The Kwanzaa celebration has emerged as a significant celebration during which the African American community can both commemorate and reflect upon its historic roots in Africa, as well as the awe-inspiring impact it has had on the American experience. Kwanzaa is a family-friendly celebration involving a candle lighting including a festive, educational, and inspirational program that beautifully reflects the principles of UNITY.
Rabbi Perl of Chabad of Mineola has donated the 6 foot Menorah that will be lit in Eisenhower Park for all to enjoy.
