BERNARDSTON — A crowd of bundled up children chanted “SANTA” in unison as a horse-drawn carriage with Santa Claus riding inside pulled up to the Bernardston Fire Station. He greeted the children before turning on the lights of the Cushman Park Christmas tree.
The annual event has been held in the town for more than 20 years, according to organizers from the Kiwanis Club.
After the tree lighting, the kids could get pictures with Santa inside the fire station, where volunteers served hot chocolate and cookies to the crowd of about 50.
The horse-drawn carriage was provided by Sue and Dave Allen of Leaning Tree Farm.
Bernardston Fire Chief Peter Shedd said the event used to be held at a local church, but was moved to the fire station for convenience and the added fun for kids who can see the fire trucks.
“What more could you ask for than Santa and a fire truck at the same time?” he said.