Despite a cold, windy afternoon, East Allen Township held a well-planned Christmas in the Park event Dec. 7 at Bicentennial Park. It was the second annual holiday event at the park.

Popular music and holiday songs were played, and numerous seasonal lights were placed all around the area.

There was food for sale from Curbside Grill and Catering.

Children had the opportunity to make crafts, write letters to Santa and enjoy other activities. Jane MacKay, president of General Federation of Women’s Club of Creekside Meadows, and Linda Canny, club volunteer, and others assisted and monitored the kids games and activities in the pavilion area.

Olaf, of Disney’s “Frozen” fame, was present, greeting folks as they arrived. Pictures with Olaf were a hit with kids and adults. He danced to the music being played and accompanied Santa upon his arrival.

Raymond Henry, a leader at East Allen Township Volunteer Fire Department, was the master of ceremonies during the Santa arrival and tree-lighting ceremony.

Henry led attendees to the large evergreen tree that was to be lighted. While all waited for the guest of honor, one could hear little kids asking their parents, “When is Santa coming?”

Suddenly, in the distance, a large firetruck, with all bright lights blinking, appeared. The energy of anticipation and excitement grew to a palpable level. The song “Here Comes Santa Claus” played loudly in the background.

Santa got off the truck and, after a countdown, pushed the plunger that lit the tree lights.

Santa, wearing a deep-red, well-tailored suit with smart-looking dark-colored black boots, looked like an authentic, historical Santa dressed like a century ago. He was surrounded by families as he walked to the pavilion, which had a large comfortable seat waiting for him. A long line formed with kids eager to tell him what they want for Christmas.

East Allen Township Volunteer Fire Department had a large presence, including a hot chocolate and cookie tent, which was popular because of the cold weather.

The organizing coordinators assembled a fun event for families and their children.

Despite the cold, families and children who attended the Christmas in the Park celebration were happy and made pleasant holiday memories.