Christmas Parade Brings Magic to Blackwell Street, JFK Park

Crowds brave the cold to celebrate the parade and tree-lighting ceremony. 

The crowd gathered at the Christmas Marketplace in JFK Park to welcome Santa and Mrs. Claus as they made their entrance. (Photo/Jack Ponzoni)

As performers lined up near Crescent Field in Lot B, attendees lined Blackwell Street. The scent of warm, fresh popcorn and hot chocolate filled the frosty Monday night air, letting everyone know it was time for Dover's annual Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting ceremony.

When the parade began, over 500 residents braved 25-degree temperatures to kick off the holiday season. Participants tossed handfuls of candy to eager children, families shared treats with neighbors, and strangers warmed to each other in the winter chill.

The Dover High School marching band led the procession, followed by dozens of floats that featured Bri'LaFlor Dance Studio, Dover High School cheerleaders, the Boonton and Dover Fire Departments, and the Hispanic Affairs float. Participants dressed as a variety of Christmas characters, including elves, Grinches, and reindeer, and entertained the cheering crowd. 

Santa and Mrs. Claus wave to the crowd as they ride down Blackwell Street on a vintage firetruck. (Photo/Jack Ponzoni)

When Santa and Mrs. Claus appeared on the Dover Fire Department's 1937 American LaFrance fire truck, children's voices cut through the winter darkness. "Santa's here!" they chanted, their breath visible in clouds against the night sky.

The Church of Elyon's float featured a live nativity scene complete with real goats and sheep. "We’ve participated since 2017. I'm excited for it every year," said Hector Zanabaria, dressed as Joseph for the display. "It's for the community and our church."

As the parade continued up Blackwell Street, onto North Bergen Street, and into JFK Park, the evening was filled with music, and excited conversations. At the Dover Fire Department’s hot chocolate station, firefighters poured warmth into outstretched hands. Families browsed the Holiday Marketplace while Christmas music floated through the park.

Mayor James P. Dodd spoke to the crowd as they waited for the tree-lighting ceremony. (Photo/Jack Ponzoni)

Before the tree lighting, Mayor James P. Dodd thanked residents and volunteers for being part of the tradition.

“Tonight is possible because of all the people who truly care about the town of Dover,” he said. “We are one community—united by tradition, gratitude, and the joy this season brings. As many of you know, the real reason for the season is the birth of a King—baby Jesus.”

He added, “For months, countless hands and hearts have worked tirelessly to bring this celebration to life. From hot chocolate to local vendors to our incredible volunteers, everyone helped create this festive atmosphere.”

Members of the Dover High School Marching Band played holiday favorites down Blackwell Street. (Photo/Jack Ponzoni)

Michelle Espada, leader of the Recreation Department, echoed that theme. 

"We have come together as a community, and we celebrate this season of hope, generosity, and togetherness," she said. "As we light up our streets, we carry forward the spirit of Christmas."

Michael McGovern, Mt. Hope, Rockaway Fire Captain, explained the significance. 

"[This parade is about] showing the community that we're there and not just firemen," he said. "We're there to support them in all their endeavors. This parade is packed. Supporting the community is what we're all about."

Rockaway Borough Fire Chief Officer Joseph VanSaders agreed.

“It shows the lighthearted nature of the brotherhood of firefighting and how we can come out and support each other, in fun times and not just hard times,” he said. “It’s great to get out in the community, especially during the holiday season.”

Dawn Marie Lombardi, whose son Ryan plays percussion in the Dover High School Marching Band, has lived in Dover for over 30 years.

"Events like this are important because they bring people together," she said. "With all the problems in our country, it's nice to do something like this once in a while."

Her husband, Larry, agreed. "It's great when towns have events like this."

Aimee Cedeno and Shannon Portway, Dover High School staff members assisting the marching band, watched their students perform.

"It's good to see them get involved in the community," Portway said. "It's an important part."

"Especially when it's the arts and something they're passionate about — they can show the community that," Cedeno added.

The stately tree warmed the hearts of everyone as they celebrated the start of the holiday season. (photo/Jack Ponzoni)

Throughout the park, joyful sounds rose above the Dover Middle School Jazz Band's melodies as children ran between vendor booths, clutching new treasures. As the night wore on, Dover's holiday tradition proved once again that a community gathered together will always find warmth in each other.