North Reading Celebrates Christmas Season With Annual Tree Lighting

A steady cold rain did not stop North Reading from celebrating the annual tree lighting on the common on Sunday. 

Despite the lousy weather, hundreds celebrated at the event that is sponsored by the Reading-North Reading Chamber of Commerce. Performers, including groups from schools, kept attendees entertained.

Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus greeted visitors to the Reading Cooperative Bank and the North Reading Fire Department transported the North Pole's favorite residents to the common via fire engine. 
 
There were also new wrinkles in this year's event. The Flint Memorial Library held its first ever Cookie Walk. 

The North Reading Historical and Antiquarian Society, North Reading Minit and Militia and members of the North Reading Historical Commission opened the doors to four historic buildings -- the Putnam House, Damon Tavern, Sgt. Flint House and the West Village Schoolhouse. 

Visitors to the Damon Tavern got to see the Rufus Porter Ballroom, which hasn't been visible to the public in years. Visitors got to look into the door of the ballroom and see the murals from the 1840s. 

They also visited three newly painted inn rooms in the tavern that served as lodging for visitors when the tavern was a stagecoach stop. 

Check out the video to see festivities from the tree lighting on the common.