By North Andover Life Staff
The holiday season is just around the corner, and the North Andover Festival Committee is preparing a festive lineup that builds on beloved traditions and family-friendly activities.
From the annual Santa Parade and Tree Lighting Celebration to Chanukah festivities and an afternoon of crafts and cocoa with Santa, the volunteers who make up the Festival Committee have developed plenty of opportunities to celebrate throughout November and December.
“We’ve planned a lot of free and inexpensive ways for people and families to enjoy the season right here in North Andover,” said Liz Costerisan, co-Chair of the Festival Committee.
Santa Parade Returns November 28
The holiday festivities kick off on Saturday, November 28, when North Andover’s annual Santa Parade steps off at noon.
A longtime favorite among local families, the parade will feature an assortment of marching bands, community organizations, festive performances, and familiar faces, all leading up to the much-anticipated arrival of Santa Claus.
The parade begins at North Andover Middle School and travels along Main Street, Elm Street, and Water Street before concluding at the intersection of Main and Sutton Streets.
New this year, the Festival Committee is introducing a sensory-friendly viewing area extending from North Andover Middle School to St. Paul’s Church.
“If we could find a way to make the parade more enjoyable for more neighbors, then we absolutely wanted to act on it,” said Renee Melino, co-Chair of the Festival Committee.
The designated section will offer a quieter, less overwhelming parade experience for children and adults who may be sensitive to loud noises, crowds, and other sensory stimulation.
Within this section of the route, music will be played at lower volumes, there will be no Minutemen musket fire, and additional physical spacing will help create a more comfortable viewing experience.
The initiative reflects the committee’s effort to ensure that more residents and families can participate in the town’s holiday traditions.
Tree Lighting Brings Holiday Cheer to the Common
The celebration continues the following afternoon, Sunday, November 29, with the annual Tree Lighting Celebration on the North Andover Common.
This year’s event will take place from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., a slightly earlier time than in previous years.
Among the returning attractions are the talented artists from Brilliant Ice, who will create an ice sculpture for visitors to enjoy. A trackless train will also be part of the festivities, providing another fun experience for children and families.
The Festival Committee is also expanding its partnerships with North Andover’s schools, bringing additional local participation to the celebration.
The afternoon will culminate in the lighting of the town’s holiday tree, officially welcoming the season as neighbors, families, and friends gather on the Common.
Community Invited to Celebrate Chanukah
On Sunday, December 6, at 4:30 p.m., Congregation Ahavat Olam will host a Chanukah celebration, welcoming members of the community to participate.
A second celebration will take place on Thursday, December 10, with the Public Menorah Lighting and Community Celebration on the North Andover Common.
“Chanukah is the Festival of Lights, and it will certainly feel that way driving through the Old Center,” said Melino. “I especially love how the whole area fills you with the holiday spirit the entire season.”
Both gatherings provide opportunities for residents of all backgrounds to come together, share in holiday traditions, and celebrate the community’s diversity.
Crafts & Cocoa with Santa Returns to Stevens Estate
Following a popular debut last year, Crafts & Cocoa with Santa will return to the Stevens Estate on Sunday, December 13, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
The family-friendly afternoon will include face painting, balloon twisting, holiday-themed crafts, and an opportunity for children to visit with Santa Claus.
The event is designed to offer families a festive afternoon of hands-on activities and holiday memories in one of North Andover’s most recognizable historic settings.
The Festival Committee credits the Stevens Estate and Fireside Catering for their continued partnership in making the event possible.
Keeping the Holiday Magic Alive
While the annual parade and tree lighting have become familiar parts of the town’s holiday calendar, organizing them requires considerable planning, resources, and community support.
“I love that to the outside it just feels like these events just happen,” said Costerisan. “It can almost feel like a child walking down on Christmas morning to find presents neatly wrapped. Of course, parents understand the amount of work that goes into making that magic happen.” “So many volunteers, business partners, and town staff help us make this all happen,” said Melino. “We never could do it without them.”
Planning and executing the Santa Parade and Tree Lighting costs approximately $10,000, with expenses covered entirely through donations.
Those contributions support everything from bands and entertainment to decorations, equipment, and the many logistical details involved in hosting community celebrations.
The committee is encouraging residents, families, and local businesses to consider making a donation to help sustain these traditions for future generations.
Financial contributions aren’t the only way to help. The Festival Committee is also seeking additional volunteers, particularly to assist on event days.
Whether someone can offer an hour or an entire afternoon, the committee welcomes neighbors willing to lend a hand.
Anyone interested in learning more about volunteering, events, and supporting the Festival Committee? You can contact NAFesCom@gmail.com.
The committee extends its appreciation to the local businesses, local organizations, schools, volunteers, and donors whose contributions make these celebrations possible.
