WMBCTV: Small town in New Jersey shines bright with Christmas spirit

Nestled in the heart of Bergen County is the small town of Little Ferry and Mayor Mauro Raguseo says while it's only one square mile, it’s a tight-knit community with a big heart. 

Let the countdown begin to Little Ferry’s Annual Christmas Tree Lighting.

“3, 2, 1… Light the tree!,” Mayor Mauro Raguseo cheered.

From the music to the holiday snacks and everything in between, Mayor Mauro Raguseo says this event has been a community staple for years.

“This is a tradition that has been around for decades and gets bigger and better every year,” said Raguseo. “This is when we see all Little Ferry families come together and just celebrate being together.”

While the small town of Little Ferry sits at only one square mile, Mayor Raguseo says that’s not the case with the heart of the community.

“Little Ferry is not so little,” said Raguseo. “We like to think we are the small town with a big heart. When we need help, we’re all there for each other and that’s what community means.”

Mayor Raguseo says he is proud to be the mayor of a town he expresses is so tight-knit, especially during this festive time.

“We’re so happy to see so many families come out as we begin the holiday season here in Little Ferry and celebrate Christmas,” said Raguseo. 

The Little Ferry Tree Lighting was just one of many in the area, continuing a long-standing tradition. According to the Christmas Light Source, the first Christmas Tree with electric lights was introduced in New York about 142 years ago in 1882 by Edward Johnson. He was an associate of Thomas Edison, who has been credited with inventing the lightbulb.