Riverhead’s Dec. 7 holiday kickoff featured a Santa Parade, tree lighting, and a new market, drawing hundreds.

On December 7, 2025, Riverhead hosted its annual holiday kickoff with a Santa Parade, tree lighting, and bonfire at the Town Hall campus due to construction, drawing hundreds for the festive event. The parade featured antique tractors, classic cars, and local groups, followed by a tree-lighting ceremony with music and snow effects. A new East End Merry Mart opened early, offering local goods and food. Meanwhile, a “Stuff the Trucks!” drive on December 14 at St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church will collect donations for Ukraine, including clothing, medical supplies, and food, with proceeds supporting shipping. Pet Santa visits at Talmage Farm Agway continue to be a popular family tradition.