DERRY — As the fire roared and cocoa was sipped from cups, kids and adults waited for the Santa Claus sighting that would signify the highlight of the annual kick-off for the Christmas festivities in Derry.
Santa and Mrs. Claus used their magic to light up the Christmas tree on Benson’s Lawn, 1 W. Broadway, during A Very Derry Holiday event.
The Claus’s made their rounds, greeting wide-eyed children with warm laughs while posing for photos.
Dan Foley held his son, John, up in the air after the boy had posed for his photos alongside his sisters Charlotte and Maggie.
“We’re going to make Santa cookies!” John said excitedly.
Earlier in the day, kids were decorating cookies, listening to holiday music, and meeting with Santa and Mrs. Claus before their magical show.
The Nutfield Parade was at 1 p.m., with decorated cars, floats, and more celebrating the season. The Derry Village Rotary Club collected for its annual food drive and the Derry Police walked around collecting for Toys for Tots during the parade route.
The newest addition to the holiday festivities this year was a giant inflatable snow globe that people could pose inside of for festive photos.
As they waited for Santa, the Town Council, including Chair Erin Spencer and members Charlie Foote, David Granese, and Jack Webb, wished everyone well.
“I’m very excited for our visitor that’s coming, but while we’re waiting for a moment, I just want to welcome everyone,” Spencer said. “I hope you’ve had a good day downtown here, and happy holidays to everybody.”
After arriving with flashing lights, Santa and Mrs. Claus, along with a trail of children behind them, ushered in the holiday spirit. The jolly couple had the councilors help them lead the gathering in song, first “Jingle Bells” and then “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer.”
Bev Donovan, the economic development director for Derry, said that it had been a long, but fun and successful day. She said there had been plenty of people coming and going from the different events, with a large crowd gathering for the annual Nutfield Holiday Parade.
The event also falls on Small Business Saturday every year, Donovan said. Customers can win a chance at different raffle prizes when they turn proof they shopped at a small business.
“People were out and about shopping and turning in receipts, so that was good,” Donovan said. “And now Mr. and Mrs. Claus are here. The tree is lit.”