Tree Lighting Kicks Off Countdown to Christmas

Lindenhurst started off the Christmas season right with its annual tree lighting in the center of the village on Sunday evening.

While this year's ceremony did not feature Heidi Klum – jokingly noted by Mayor Tom Brennan – the event, which included other festivities such as a very colorful parade and the arrival of Santa Claus, was well-attended.

Hundreds of people lined South Wellwood Avenue to watch as the tree, located in the median between the roadway along with the World War monument and flagpole, was lit up to signify the start of the holiday season.

Lifelong Lindenhurst resident Dr. Paul Vogelsberg was this year's honored guest, who threw the switch to turn the tree on for the first time in 2013.

Check back later today for more coverage from Lindenhurst's big day of Christmas celebrations.