Article and Photos by Stacey Pfeffer
Armonk was abuzz with activity this past Saturday as the annual Frosty Day kicked off the holiday season. Despite drizzly weather, Armonk locals and other tri-state area residents turned out in droves to experience a fun-filled afternoon with holiday train rides around town, face painting, Frosty-themed art projects, yummy holiday treats and of course several photo ops with Frosty the Snowman, who turns 65 this year. The day culminated with more than 30 local groups and organizations marching in a parade to welcome Frosty the Snowman back to his hometown.The parade concluded with a holiday lighting ceremony and sing-along at the gazebo in Wampus Brook Park.
The “Village Square” mentioned in the famous “Frosty the Snowman” song is actually Armonk’s Historic District. The Frosty Parade is the only non-denominational holiday parade in the tri-state area noted Robby Morris, a local businessman and President of Friends of Frosty, Inc. the non-profit group that organizes the day’s events.
“Just about every local group is involved somehow in Frosty Day from the Town of North Castle to the Armonk Chamber of Commerce, from the religious institutions to the schools, from the sports and youth groups to volunteer organizations. It is a great time for everyone to come together and have some fun,” said Morris.
Each year the Friends of Frosty expands the day’s events with new activities. A horse-drawn carriage around Wampus Brook Park and a holiday-themed mural designed by Westlake High School students by DeCicco’s were added. “The Clydesdale horses were very cool. A friend told us that Frosty Day was a fun way to kick off the holiday season, so we decided to come out for this, even in the rain,” noted Teresa Hough, a New Rochelle resident who came with her family. Clowns, magicians, carolers and marching bands rounded out the day’s festive spirit.
The Friends of Frosty also has a charitable component with its Winter Warmth project “Help Frosty Help Others.”
Starting in the fall, the organization starts collecting gently used winter clothing, such as hats and mittens for those in need at several locations around town. Area restaurants and shops will be accepting donations and contributions throughout the holiday season.
Stacey Pfeffer Of New Castle attended this year’s parade for the first time, and hopes to make it an annual tradition with her family.
