A little early Christmas revelry in South Elgin
Several hundred residents bundled up to see County Park transformed into a winter wonderland Saturday at South Elgin's annual An Almost Winter Day festival.
Families enjoyed sleigh rides, bonfires, craft and cookie-decorating stations, and a petting zoo while holiday music boomed through the park.
A train from the Fox River Trolley museum served as the fabled Polar Express, offering free rides to Blackhawk Station and back.
Kim Washer, superintendent of the parks and recreation department, said the mostly free event was staffed by 15 volunteers from South Elgin's Leo and Lions clubs and the South Elgin High School Community Service Group.
"We want to keep this a free event," Washer said. "It's been so well attended."
As the afternoon drew to a close, Santa arrived on a fire truck to light the park's Christmas tree.
"That's what everyone really comes for," said Debra Mainard, Leo Club adviser.
Maureen Mose said her family makes an effort to attend the festival every year.
"They really do a wonderful job. It might be a little early for Christmas, but it's helping me think about getting my pocketbook in gear," she said.
Mose's daughter, Laine, agreed. "The sleigh ride is always my favorite part," the 9-year-old Clinton Elementary School student said.