By Judy Reed

Post photo by J. Reed

You better watch out, you better not cry, you better not pout, I’m telling you why—Santa Claus is coming to town!

The old Christmas tune came true Friday night when Cedar Springs residents gathered for the annual tree lighting at the corner of Main and Ash. Mayor Charlie Watson and Mayor pro-tem Christine Fahl led the crowd in some Christmas carols, while anxious kids waited for Santa’s arrival. Santa soon arrived in the antique fire truck, accompanied by one of his faithful elves, and the Red Flannel Queen Jenna Johnson and court members Audrianna Boomgaard and Kali Oberdorfer. After lighting the tree and singing a few more songs, everyone walked over to Cedar Springs United Methodist Church, where area businesses set up activities to keep kids entertained while the kids waited their turn to sit on Santa’s lap. There were games, face painting, crafts, coloring, singing, cookies and hot chocolate and coffee. Kids also had a chance to get their photo taken with Santa.

Post photo by J. Reed

“I think it well,” said business owner Kelley Worth, who helped organize the event. “The wait for Santa was greatly reduced due to the sign in sheet and the bigger space was fantastic. It was very helpful for the businesses to have stuff for the kids to do. We have also have great ideas for next year!”

City Manager Christine Burns was also pleased with how it went. “We had a gym full of volunteers to pull it off, and kudos to Kelley for organizing it,” she said. “The activities were excellent. I hope we can continue to partner with the church, as this was way better than having people stand outside in the cold. Each year the number of attendees has increased, and we’ve outgrown the space so it was incredible that the church opened their doors and allowed us a nice warm gathering place. They even provided beverages and treats!”

About 92 families signed in, with at least 125 kids signed in to see Santa.