Santa and Mrs. Claus meet with all the girls and boys at the Delta Planetarium after their arrival on Friday night at the band shell. (Photo courtesy of Downtown Bay City's Candace Bales)
Santa Makes His Arrival at Wenona Park
Hundreds Welcome Santa and Mrs. Claus
November 27, 2011
By: Diane Szczepanski
Mild temperatures brought out hundreds of excited children and adults for the official arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus at Bay City's Wenona Park Band Shell.
Mayor Christoper Shannon welcomed the excited crowd and read a holiday season classic, 'Twas The Night before Christmas'.
A police escort for the season's popular fellow, wrapped up an evening of story-telling, jokes, dance and song.
Eager children everywhere in the park, waved flashlights and shouted "Santa!" as he made his way down the river's edge with the flashing lights before him.
Many joined in the celebration that Candace Bales, Executive Director of Downtown Bay City Management Board called, "The biggest turn-out yet!"
She went on to say, "We've had snow and sleet and this weather tonight is so much better than some years".
After the tree lighting, Santa and Mrs. Claus made their way over to the Delta Planetarium to visit with children one on one.
Dancers perform onstage at Wenona Park Band Shell
Boy Scout Troop #108 and Cub Scout Troop #3113 assisted with the
reciting of the Pledge of Allegiance onstage
WHNN 96.1 Radio Personality, Bob Hughes (l) and Eric Jyhlla, WNEM TV5 (r),
emceed and kept the festivities moving along for the evening
Mayor Christoper Shannon, accompanied by his wife and daughter, recites
'Twas the Night Before Christmas'
A happy, excited group waiting for Santa's arrival
The view from atop of shoulders is always the best!
Tyler (l) and Claire (r) are bundled up and ready for a night of fun
All eyes are on the Big Guy onstage!
Front row seats just added to the excitement for these children