Children broke their choruses of "Here Comes Santa Claus" to cheer as the man in red strolled into the room Sunday.
Several little boys ran up to Santa to give him a hug before he sat in his chair at St. John's Center in Mayfield, next to a sign that read "North Pole." An attentive audience of about 120 children, parents, grandparents and friends gathered in front of Santa as he read "A Visit from St. Nicholas," assisted by a few of the excited kids.
The Mayfield Lions Club event has been a staple in the community for at least 20 years, according to 50-year charter member Basil Telep. It was one of several holiday events around Lackawanna County on Sunday.
"The reactions of the children's faces are priceless," said fellow Lion Nick Serniak, 49.
The free event, which included snacks, crafts and a complimentary photo with Santa, was appreciated by residents like Kenny Nichols, who brought his son, Jeremy, 5, and his daughter, Emily, 1.
"When Santa comes, they all go crazy," Mr. Nichols said with a smile. "It's one of the best things the Lions Club does."
The holiday spirit spread through other municipalities in the county as well on Sunday.
Carbondale Twp.
At the Meredith Hose Company in the township's Childs section, dozens of people gathered for an annual Christmas party, where they enjoyed snacks, met Santa and colored in fire safety books.
Standing inches from Santa, Wilfrido Sanchez raised his hands over mouth and stared, wide-eyed, not saying a word.
The 3-year-old had already sat on Santa's lap - three times. But he wasn't ready to leave his new best friend.
"This is his first time meeting Santa, so he is pretty shocked," his grandmother, Evelyn Gonzalez, said. "I don't think he knows what to say."
While Santa was the featured attraction, some children preferred the firehouse mascot - Sparky, the Dalmatian.
"I like Sparky because he is cute and soft," 7-year-old Samantha Sharp said. "He is the best."
Blakely
Capping a busy day of travel, Santa rode atop a firetruck and waved to families standing outside their homes.
Organized by the Wilson Fire Company, the four-hour tour through the borough is an annual tradition geared to "prepare the community for the holidays," volunteer Tommy Harrison III said.
"It is a little treat the Fire Department gives to the community every year," Mr. Harrison said. "It gives everyone a chance to see Santa."
Standing alongside his dog outside his home, Barry Eppler greeted Santa's elves as they handed him candy.
He said he looks forward to the event every year because it is great for the children in the area.
"I do not have any children, so I enjoy it with my dog," Mr. Eppler said. "We do not have a chance to see the Santa Train, so this is the next best thing. I love it."
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