The parking lot in front of Town Hall was full of families and Christmas spirit as the Department of Parks and Recreation held its annual tree lighting ceremony on the evening of Sunday, Dec. 4.

“Thank you for showing up tonight,” Select Board Vice Chair Stanley Mickelson said moments before the tree was lit. “This is the largest crowd we’ve ever had.”

Prior to the ceremony, families had the chance to take a quick holiday card photo courtesy of Dartmouth Community Television, chat with Santa and grab hot chocolate and donuts from a table sponsored by Bank5 — the favorite table of eight-year-old Desmond Gregory.

“It’s pretty good,” he said after taking a bite of a donut with green and red sprinkles.

There was also a raffle consisting of prizes like a stuffed moose, along with live Christmas music from members of the Conquerors for Christ Church located on Reed Road.

“We’ve never had a band before,” Mickelson said.

Perhaps the biggest draw of the night were all the Peanuts-themed decorations set up outside, a franchise Recreation Coordinator Becky Amaral holds near and dear to her heart.

“I just really love Snoopy,” she said.

Amaral even went as far to dress up as the anthropomorphic beagle, greeting all kids who wished to meet the iconic comic strip character.

She said the experience of being Snoopy wasn’t bad, aside from the fact it had limited visibility inside the inflatable suit.

“I had to have someone guide me,” Amaral said with a laugh.

Still, she said it was worth it to help spread a little holiday cheer (and more so to see her planning come to fruition). 

“This night was great,” Amaral said. “Exactly what I wanted.”