Community

Photos: Annual holiday bonfire in downtown Riverhead

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Visitors gathered around the annual holiday bonfire in downtown Riverhead Saturday evening. (Credit: Katharine Schroeder)

The Town of Riverhead hosted its annual bonfire and holiday celebration on the riverfront Saturday.

Sponsored by the Town of Riverhead and the Riverhead BID, the popular event  featured a large bonfire, hot chocolate and a visit from Santa, who arrived in a boat decorated with sparkling lights.

After making his way along the riverfront to the town Christmas tree, Santa sprinkled magic fairy dust in the air, causing the tree to light up.  Afterwards Santa greeted excited children in his gingerbread house.

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Keeping the bonfire going. (Credit: Katharine Schroeder)
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A man takes a photo of the fire. (Credit: Katharine Schroeder)
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The bonfire on the riverfront. (Credit: Katharine Schroeder)
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The town menorah. (Credit: Katharine Schroeder)
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Kelly and Sarah Schuhmann of Riverhead pose with Santa. (Credit: Katharine Schroeder)
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Volunteers from the Riverhead JV cheerleading squad hand out free hot chocolate. (Credit: Katharine Schroeder)
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Santa’s gingerbread house. (Credit: Katharine Schroeder)
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Riverhead Town Councilman James Wooten announces Santa’s arrival. (Credit: Katharine Schroeder)
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Santa’s boat. (Credit: Katharine Schroeder)
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Santa makes his way up the dock. (Credit: Katharine Schroeder)
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Santa throws fairy dust to magically light up the Christmas tree. (Credit: Katharine Schroeder)