Coplay Borough and the Coplay Recreation and Welfare Association held a magical holiday lighting event Nov. 30 at the borough hall, 98 S. Fourth St. The well-attended event was a delight for young and old.

The star of the event was former Coplay resident and nationally known magician and illusionist Tom Yurasits. He entertains at family gatherings, corporate meetings, birthday parties, local shows and more.

He is a magician, escape artist and mentalist who has performed in 35 states coast to coast, as well as the Cayman Islands and Canada. He reportedly once made a 1,600-pound cow disappear in front of an audience of 1,000 people.

The attendees, of all ages, marveled at his illusions, with many wondering out loud how he performed his feats. In his act, he included kids from the audience, doves and a little white rabbit.

The climax of his performance occurred when a large sled holding a big green bag was pulled onto the stage. To the surprise of all, after gifts were taken out of the bag, Santa Claus magically stepped out of the bag to greet the attendees.

The show ended with Santa leading the families out to the large hallway to receive gifts and enjoy light refreshments. A number of holiday elves - borough volunteers - were on hand to assist.

Santa, Yurasits and a lucky kid named Zachary then flipped the large switch that lit up the holiday lights outdoors. Santa settled in to take pictures with the children, as holiday music played in the background.

Coplay Recreation and Welfare Association President Richard Hess said he was delighted at the turnout for this annual event. He read prepared remarks at the start of the evening, welcoming all.

Coplay Recreation and Welfare Association is seeking additional members. Call Hess at 610-844-4282 for information about this group, which has worked to provide valuable events and services to Coplay residents for more than 60 years.