By Cris Greer
WKTV Managing Editor
greer@wktv.org

After lighting the Kentwood Christmas tree in front of a large gathering of residents last week, Mayor Stephen Kepley said there’s a hunger for community.

“There’s a hunger to get out and do things with family and your kids, even in the midst of being cold,” said Mayor Kepley, who’s attended the event as a public figure for 12 years. “We have such a diverse community that when we do these events, I think it just adds to the unity. I don’t know how many people I’ve talked to that I’ve seen at this event or the July 4th events, but I think it’s wonderful to do community events where people can gather. For a lot of them, this has become their family tradition. It’s really amazing.”

“I remember meeting one person who came as a little kid, and now he has his own family and kids that are coming to these events. So, I think it’s wonderful for unification, but also for just family tradition.”

The large crowd of residents huddled together on a frigid Thursday evening to celebrate the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and new Stationary Holiday Parade in the parking lot of the Kent District Library – Kentwood (Richard L. Root) Branch.

The Stationary Holiday Parade featured floats and decorated vehicles. Other highlights at the event were a visit from Santa, food trucks, a snow globe photo booth, hot chocolate, crafts hosted by library staff, and a performance by the Michigan Ballet Academy.  

“This holiday event is one of our favorites to put on,” said Parks and Recreation Director Val Romeo. “Creating opportunities for the community to gather and celebrate is fundamental to our mission,”