Mrs. Claus and Santa Claus took a break in Falher Nov. 29 to visit with children from around the region. Pictured are Aiden Brulotte (on Mrs. Claus) and Elise Gagnon (on Santa’s knee) were two of the lucky children who got to spend some time with the Claus’.

Santa and Mrs. Claus made a stop at the Falher Recreation Complex on Nov. 29, much to the delight of local children. Moonlight Madness and Santa Days were held together on Nov. 28 and Nov. 29 by the Falher Chamber of Commerce. “Moonlight Madness went really well,” says Chamber president Paula Guindon. “I was in town throughout the evening and the stores were really busy. It was nice to see everybody participating in the event.” Friday evening featured late night shopping, with many local businesses staying open as late as 11 p.m. Fireworks were held at 7 p.m. by the Smoky River Tourism building on the south side of town. “There was a really good turnout for the fireworks,” says Guindon. “The fireworks are always really fun for the whole family.” Saturday was highlighted with Santa’s trip to Falher with his wife Mrs. Claus. They visited the Recreation Complex from 10:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. “The kids had a great time with Santa and Mrs. Claus,” explains Guindon. “We had about 100 children come out to visit with them.” Santa brought gifts for every child who came out on Nov. 29. He also was available for pictures with the children. Children had the opportunity to visit with Santa and then enjoy free hotdogs and hot chocolate. They were also given the chance to colour and do crafts in the café after visiting Santa Claus. “It is a shame that we didn’t have sleigh rides this year,” says Guindon. “The rides always adds an element of excitement to Santa Days.” The Chamber of Commerce drew three winners randomly for the three door prizes available during the day. The age groups for the draws were ages 1 one to four, five to eight, and nine to 12. The Falher Pirates skate with the children was held from 1p.m. at the recreation complex. Children had the time of their life skating with their local idols. “The free skate with the Pirates is always one of my favourite times during Santa Days,” says Guindon. “The kids kind of view the players as the same level as NHL players. They get really excited to see the guys up close and personal.” “I think when the guys get out there to skate it is good for both the Pirates and the children. The children always feel special when they’re skating with the guys.” Guindon says the Chamber council is very satisfied with how many people participated in the events this year. Pictures taken with Santa will be available soon. The chamber council will be contacting parents when they are ready.