Woolwich welcomed the Yuletide season with caroling and hosting old Saint Nick at its annual tree lighting ceremony Sunday afternoon. Due to the pandemic this year’s event was held outside rather than indoors at the historic Nequasset Meetinghouse. Guests were encouraged to bring canned goods for Bath Area Food Bank, and many did.

The weather was clear but on the chilly side when the event started at 5. Collette Coombs of the Special Events Committee was working the refreshment table in the front entrance of the meetinghouse. The table was loaded with yummy baked goods, and there was hot chocolate and cider, too.

“Last year, because of the pandemic we weren’t able to hold our annual Yule Sing for the first time in something like 27 years. Todd McPhee, a former selectman and I started the tradition as a way for the community to gather during the holidays,” she said. The event is also a way to collect donations for the food bank. Several boxes were brimming with canned goods.

The Montsweagers, a folk band made-up of mostly Woolwich residents, warmed the atmosphere with holiday music. “It’s a little chilly but we’ve got a pretty good turnout tonight. It’s just nice to see people gathering again and having fun,” said Tammy Given, another member of the Special Events Committee.

Former selectman Lloyd Coombs was bundled up sporting a red stocking hat and thoroughly enjoying himself. Coombs told Wiscasset Newspaper he was looking forward to spending a quiet Christmas at home with wife Collette. “I wish everyone a very merry Christmas,” he said.

Sue Ellen Whittaker. there with her son, hopes 2022 will be a better year for everyone. “My Christmas wish is that more people will both remember, and honor the true meaning of the holiday season. It’s not just about receiving, it’s about giving too.” Selectman Jason Shaw said his Christmas wish is for people to be kinder to one another in the coming year. “I hope people all over the country can learn to put their differences aside and start working together and make things better.”

As for Santa, his Christmas wish was for everyone, everywhere to stay healthy and safe during the holiday season, and throughout the coming year.