It is Thanksgiving Eve, and if you know me, you know what that means. While most people are prepping turkeys and peeling potatoes, I am busy getting my oversized shoes and red nose ready to march as a clown in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade!
For the past 17 years, I’ve had the honor of walking those city streets, spreading joy to millions. But for me, this parade signals something even more special closer to home. It marks the official kickoff of the 29th year of Operation HoHoHo.
As I get ready to march, our team of “elves”—our incredible toy collection partners, local businesses, organizations, and most importantly, our friends—are gearing up for another season of magic.
A Tradition of Smiles
We started this tradition back in 1997 when I was behind the reins of a team of lawn mowers at Hansch Landscaping instead of a team of reindeer. Somehow, nearly three decades later, we continue to see this magic happen every year.
It is amazing how we can become so consumed by the little things in life that we forget what it’s all about. We want to encourage you not to get wrapped up in the stress of buying presents, but instead focus on the smile that an unexpected gift can bring. That is the heart of Operation HoHoHo.
New Sleighs and Old Friends This year, we are thrilled to announce that our “sleigh” is getting a little bigger! We will have our regular North Jersey trailer full of gifts, and we are so excited to have a second South Jersey trailer joining us for the journey.
We are collecting unwrapped gifts for children (ages 2–16) right up until the big day. Whether you are hosting a holiday party and asking guests to bring a toy, or just picking up an extra item while shopping, every single gift helps bring a smile to a child who really needs it.
The Big Delivery
Mark your calendars for Christmas Eve, Eve (December 23rd). That is when our caravan will head down to the original Ronald McDonald House in Philadelphia.
Every year when we unload the trailers, I’m truly amazed at the hospitality of the staff and the genuine feeling of love that fills the room. The Ronald McDonald House is a wonderful charity that aids families when they have a sick child in the hospital, and we are honored to help them work with their sister locations to ensure every gift finds a home where it is truly needed.
Join the Fun! If you would like to join us in spreading the magic of Santa Claus, we would love to have you. You can check out our participation page or shoot us an email to get involved. Whether you need signs for a toy drive or just have a great idea to share, let me know—the more the better!
Thank you for considering this very worthy cause. As we all know, the joy of the season really comes from what we can share with others.
Hope you are all having a great day and getting into the Christmas spirit!
