‘Light Up the Night’ Event at NBV Community Bank Park Kicks Off the Holiday Season

Last Updated on Friday, 01 December 2023 15:29

By Jill Runfola

Councilwoman Paula Usher, Rec Commission Volunteer Pam Ambrose, Councilwoman Barb Day, Rec Commission Volunteer Chelsea Pawlak, and NBV Mayor Craig Ambrose, all worked to serve food to attendees of the holiday event.

Rostraver Township family out enjoying festivities before a bonfire. L-R: The Yankos include Tyler, Dawson (baby-13 mos.) and Kelsey.

8th grade teens making the scene while keeping warm! Pictured are L-R: Jaylie Bell, Evelyn Matthews, and Laney Fragello.

Santa with the NBV Mayor Craig Ambrose’s grandchildren. On the left is Austin Ambrose and on right is Mia Ambrose.

Perhaps little 6 months-old Raegan Crawford is sharing with Santa what she wants for Christmas. Her mom, Alea Usher, both from Belle Vernon, looks on.

A ‘Light Up the Night’ event was held at North Belle Vernon Community Bank Park on Sunday, Nov. 19, at 6:00PM, and attendance of all ages. Santa was set to arrive on a fire truck thanks to the North Belle Vernon Volunteer Fire Department at 6:30 pm. Each child was gifted a small treat bag from Santa as well.

“We typically expect 100-150 children to visit Santa during this event,” said Cody Ambrose, Volunteer for NBV Recreation Commission. The adult attendees were able to enjoy a bonfire and holiday music as the children waited for Santa. This also gave visitors to the park an opportunity to walk around and mingle with one another. In addition, the NBV Recreation Commission gave out free hot dogs and hot chocolate. The kids were so excited to see Santa, some chanted his name and many stood in a very long line just to visit him. The Light Up Night had something for everyone - food, fellowship, fun, and especially Santa! It was a great night to kick off the holidays in North Belle Vernon!