November 30, 2011 THE VILLADOM TIMES II • Page 13 Everyone is invited to Ridgewood for a gala celebration on Friday, Dec. 2 as the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce celebrates the 26th Anniversary of Downtown for the Holidays. East Ridgewood Avenue will be closed to traffic from 4:30 to 9 p.m. to accommodate this annual event. The Christmas tree lighting and celebration will be held at the east side of the train station, located at the intersection of East Ridgewood Avenue and Broad Street. Downtown for the Holidays coming to village Last year, with much passion and perseverance, Paul Vagianos spearheaded a campaign, working with members of the Ridgewood Business District, Chamber of Commerce, Ridgewood Village Council, and residents to bring the celebration back to this traditional location. Chamber members will set up their tables on East Ridgewood Avenue from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Members who wish to participate, but have not yet contacted the Chamber, are invited to call (201) 445-2600 or e-mail info@ridgewoodchamber.com. Once again, the Downtown for the Holidays Entertainment Committee has put together a spectacular stage show. The music will start at 5:30 p.m. and performances will follow at 7 p.m. At 7:30 p.m. the tree lighting ceremony will be held. Entertainment at the stage will continue until 8 p.m. Performances will continue in the streets of the village from 8 to 9 p.m. Santa will be in his house at Van Neste Square Park from 8 to 9 p.m. Look for Santa’s elves, who will be ringing their bells to lead everyone toward the Jolly Old Elf. A live band will play during this hour. The Dec. 3 celebration will include multiple events. Event organizers have planned some wonderful surprises, so be sure to stay in Ridgewood to catch it all. Make your shopping and dining reservations now. The celebration will continue each Saturday before Christmas. On Saturday, Dec. 3, join Santa for breakfast at Park West Tavern. Call (201) 445-6500 for reservations. Santa will then jump on a big red Ridgewood Fire Truck and head up East Ridgewood Avenue to Columbia Bank where children will receive gifts and have an opportunity to speak with him. At 10:30 a.m., there will be a free children’s movie at the Warner Clearview Theater for the entire family to enjoy. The Chamber Trolley will be taking everyone through the business district for (continued on page 16)