Newton Medical Center Lights the Night With Annual ‘Festival of Lights’ (Photos and Video Highlights)

NEWTON, NJ – About 24 years ago, C. Edward McCracken was seeking a way to make Newton Memorial Hospital (now Newton Medical Center, a place where there could be cheer for those staying in the hospital for the holidays. From there, the “Festival of Lights” was born, with a few people participating and a few of the trees aglow.

In 2015, attendees flock from around the region for this spectacular event, which has grown exponentially in terms of crowds, plus activities. There are activities for the children, along with Santa Claus. There is a reception inside for donors and supporters. There are carols that are sung by area middle school and high school students.

People mill around the hospital entrance to hear holiday music. Photo by Jennifer Jean Miller.

The Halsted Middle School Chorale performs in front of the medical center. Photo by Jennifer Jean Miller.

And then the moment that all wait for – a bagpiper who leads medical center dignitaries to the central tree lighting area, the trees are illuminated throughout the campus, and then the momentous fireworks display concludes the event.

“It’s great to have a community event where the hospital can play such a central role,” said Joseph DiPaolo, Newton Medical Center President, at the donor reception.

Joseph DiPaolo, Newton Medical Center President. Photo by Jennifer Jean Miller.

Donors give monies to light up the trees throughout the property with stringed displays, as well as wreaths, and other arrangements.

Women of Sussex County overall are honored with this effort this year, for the “15 for Women – Year of Women’s Health” campaign, including the new Center for Breast Health that is now on campus and offers three-dimensional mammography technology.

Smith-McCracken & Wood Funeral Home and the Brennan and Hazan Families are event sponsors.

A full view of the fireworks. Photo by Jennifer Jean Miller.

Trees illuminate the driveway up to the medical center. Photo by Jennifer Jean Miller.

Click below for some video highlights of the event.

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