Governor, First Gentleman to Host Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Celebration

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Governor Gina M. Raimondo and First Gentleman Andy Moffit will host a Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Celebration on Thursday, December 1, 2016 at the Rhode Island State House.

The event is open to all Rhode Islanders and their families and will feature performances from the Governor’s Own 88th Army Band, among others. There will be an opportunity to take photos with Santa Claus. Guests are encouraged to bring their own cameras.

This gathering will also mark the season of giving, and the Governor’s office will use the hashtag #RISeasonofGiving throughout the event. Attendees are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy and help «Fill a Cruiser» with the State Police to benefit local children in need.

«As the year draws to a close, it is time for us to come together as Rhode Islanders to reflect on this year and look to the next. This might be a time of uncertainty, but we need to look to the future with optimism instead of fear,» said Raimondo. «There are so many things to be grateful for all around us – and Christmas is one opportunity to celebrate and share in the season of giving.»

«One of the strengths that comes from being a small state is that we can more easily come together as a community,» Moffit said. «This Christmas and throughout entire holiday season, our family is looking forward to joining Rhode Islanders from across the state to take a moment out of our busy lives to reflect and celebrate this season of giving at the State House.»