On Wednesday, December 13, Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz joined by Deputy Borough President Yvonne Graham, and Brooklyn Parks Commissioner Julius Spiegel, at Brooklyn Borough Hall Plaza’s Christmas tree lighting extravaganza. A spirited performance by the 200-voice, six-time Grammy Award-winning, Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir and a special appearance by Santa Claus helped put the crowd in a festive mood on the mild December night.

Ten year-old Miss New York Sweetheart, East Flatbush native D’andre McKay joined Borough President Markowitz and flipped the switch lighting Brooklyn’s 36-foot Balsam Fir donated by the Brooklyn Terminal Market Merchants Association. Following the tree lighting, the revelers were welcomed into Borough Hall where they enjoyed refreshments and after a visit with Santa each child selected a new toy.

“This tree represents the growth, life, and hope for peace that we all share in our borough and beyond”, said Borough President Markowitz. “During this season we are reminded that though Brooklynites hail from 98 different countries, and speak 138 different languages, we are all children of one almighty.”

The special evening was made possible with the generous support of our sponsors the New York City Parks and Recreation, MetroTech BID, Target, Connecticut Muffin, Lassen & Hennigs, Starbucks, Michael Towne Wine & Spirits, and Snow Beverages.