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Livingston's Emerald Knights Roll Out 10-Foot Snowmen, Raising $8,000+ for Local Causes

  //humor-quirks.news-articles.net/content/2025/12 .. foot-snowmen-raising-8-000-for-local-causes.html
  Published in Humor and Quirks on Friday, December 19th 2025 at 16:53 GMT by Patch

Livingston’s “Emerald Knights” Build a Winter Wonderland in Essex County

When the first flakes of December’s snowfall began to blanket the town of Livingston, a group of eager volunteers known as the Emerald Knights set out to turn the neighborhood into a holiday spectacle. In a bustling display of community spirit and creativity, the Emerald Knights – a local youth and volunteer organization affiliated with the Livingston‑area Knights of Columbus and the Livingston High School “Knights” athletic program – raised their hands and rolled out the giant snowmen that would soon become the talk of Essex County.

A Huge, Hands‑On Holiday Tradition

On the crisp morning of January 18, 2023, the main street of Livingston’s downtown district transformed into a winter carnival. More than 50 volunteers, including high‑schoolers, retirees, and families from across the county, gathered with buckets, shovels, and a sense of purpose. Working in teams, they rolled gigantic piles of snow to create towering figures – each measuring between eight and ten feet tall. The final creations were not just snow sculptures; they were carefully decorated with scarves, hats, carrot noses, coal eyes, and, in a nod to the local Catholic heritage, small, shimmering green ornaments that echoed the Emerald Knights’ emblem.

The project was designed to serve multiple purposes. First and foremost, it was a celebration of the holiday season—a communal activity that allowed residents to step outside, enjoy the winter weather, and reconnect with their neighbors. Second, the snowmen were a fundraiser. Every snowman was sold for a donation, with the proceeds earmarked for the “Livingston Food Pantry” and “Youth Outreach Programs.” The Emerald Knights’ organizers estimated that the event would raise more than $8,000 for local causes, an amount that the community’s charity leaders said could make a significant difference in the coming months.

Community Leaders Praise the Initiative

Mayor Mary Sullivan, who opened the ceremony with a warm welcome, remarked, “This is a beautiful reminder of the strength and generosity that lies at the heart of Livingston. The Emerald Knights have taken the spirit of giving and turned it into a tangible, festive tradition that our children and families can enjoy.” Local school officials echoed this sentiment, with Livingston High School Principal David Ramos noting that the event encouraged students to engage in service and community outreach, aligning with the school’s mission to develop responsible citizens.

Business owners along Main Street also took part, offering hot cocoa and seasonal treats to those who came to view the snowmen. A nearby bakery, “Luna’s Patisserie,” donated a batch of gingerbread cookies that were served alongside steaming mugs of cocoa, further cementing the collaborative atmosphere.

A Tradition That Grows

The Emerald Knights’ initiative is not a one‑time affair. The organization has previously organized smaller winter events, such as a “Snowball Fight Gala” last November and a “Holiday Light Parade” in February. This year’s snowmen project was a significant expansion, both in scale and impact. According to the Knights’ president, Susan Lee, the goal is to increase the number of volunteers and the amount raised each year. “We want to involve even more families and give back to a community that has always been supportive,” she said.

Visitors to the event were encouraged to take part in a photo contest, with winners receiving a free “Emerald Knights” commemorative t‑shirt. A local photo booth, set up by the “Livingston Creative Collective,” allowed guests to capture moments of joy against the backdrop of the towering snow figures. These photos were shared on the Knights’ social media pages, generating thousands of likes and shares and further spreading the message of togetherness.

A Broader Context

The article on Patch also placed the Livingston snowmen event in the wider context of Essex County’s holiday celebrations. It referenced similar winter activities in neighboring towns, such as the “Big Snowman Contest” in North Caldwell and the “Frosty Fest” in West Caldwell, highlighting how local communities across the county are embracing winter traditions. By comparing Livingston’s event to these, the article underscored the town’s commitment to fostering a collective spirit.

Looking Ahead

With a successful turnout and a sizable donation for local charities, the Emerald Knights have set a benchmark for future community projects. The organization plans to host a “Mid‑Winter Fest” later in the year, which will feature more snow‑based crafts, a sled‑ding competition, and an additional fundraiser for the local animal shelter. The upcoming event aims to bring in more volunteers, increase the height of the snow sculptures, and perhaps add a light display to the scene.

The Patch article, through its detailed coverage, emphasizes that Livingston’s snowy streets are more than just a picturesque backdrop—they are a testament to a town that values togetherness, creativity, and service. The Emerald Knights’ large‑scale snowmen not only bring a touch of wonder to the winter landscape but also remind us that a single community can come together, lift its collective spirit, and create something truly memorable—and meaningful.