Coram Set For 1st Community Christmas Tree Lighting On Saturday

PORT JEFFERSON, NY — The community of Coram will kick off the holiday season by celebrating the first Christmas tree lighting at Coram Country Lanes on Saturday.

The event starts at 6 p.m.

It will include a visit with "Santa Claus" in a pop-up Winter Wonderland, as well as carolers, holiday crafts, and bowling specials. Anyone who brings a new, unwrapped toy to donate to the U.S. Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots program, will receive a free bowling game for their next visit.

Community groups, such as Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts troops, and the local fire and police departments will be in attendance. Reps from Texas Roadhouse will be on hand, providing some giveaways.

Those who wish to stay and bowl after the tree lighting festivities can enjoy two hours of “Cosmic Bowling," which includes glow-in-the-dark special effects, music, and laser lights. It is $25 per person, and includes shoe rental.

Organizers hope plan for it to become a tradition every year.

John LaSpina, president of Maple Family Centers, which owns Coram Country Lanes, said that for the last 27 years, he has thought that the Evergreen tree outside of the venue would be perfect for a community Christmas tree lighting.

“I am so grateful and proud of my team for taking the initiative to lay the groundwork to finally make it happen," he said. "We hope to create a festive event that will become a popular annual tradition that the community looks forward to every holiday season.”

Advanced lane reservations are highly recommended for those who wish to bowl. Reservations can be made online at www.maplelanes.com/coram.