The sudden shift to warmer weather and holiday spirits brought people out over the weekend to Sloatsburg’s Sunday celebrations, that included village caroling, tree lighting and a round of visits by Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Visitors also gathered at Harmony Hall, the 1848 mansion which was dressed up in finery for its annual Victorian Holiday December 2.

The event was sponsored by the Town of Ramapo and the Friends of Harmony Hall.

In the parlor, interludes of live Music were performed by a clarinet duet of Natalie McCarter, Noami Freshwater, soprano Madison Scanlon, vocal duets of Rachel Gomberg and Dominique Alvarado, and Harmony Hall Curator Geoff Welch on piano. Guest milled about, visiting and taking in the day while snacking on hot spiced apple cider and tasty sliced ham and assorted desserts.

Once again, Ken Hayward of Hayward’s Deli & Market, and a longtime Harmony Hall supporter, stepped up his store’s community giving by providing coffee and tea for the ocassion. Haas’ Pharmacy, located across Rt. 17 from Hayward’s, also joined with Harmony Hall by providing residents with a new prescription discount — fliers can be found at Harmony Hall. Through the program, Haas will donate dollars back to Harmony Hall.

During the day, children lined up to visit with special guests, Mr. and Mrs. Claus, who made an early-season stopover.

The old Sloat House filled up and was bustling by 3:30 p.m. in anticipation of the annual village caroling, which was scheduled to stop by the hall after 4 p.m. With evening edging in, guests stepped out to the – soon to be restored front porch – to hear a large group of Sloatsburg carolers supply “sweet singing from the choir”.

Photos courtesy of Geoff Welch.