Itasca, residents team up to welcome Santa
It's one night in Itasca where almost everyone wants to get in on the action.
Police officers, firefighters, librarians, park district and nature center staff, village officials and, of course, children all team up for one reason: to welcome Santa.
"That's the whole idea behind it, that it's a communitywide event," said Itasca librarian Beth McCloskey.
Itasca's Night with Santa has grown over the past 25 years from a smaller event run by the Itasca Police Department, to a celebration that attracts hundreds of people and involves all aspects of the village.
"It got such a huge response and every year it just became bigger and better," said Itasca Crime Prevention officer Rick Brogan.
The event runs 5:45 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 8, at Itasca Municipal Complex, 550 W. Irving Park Road, and includes holiday crafts, carolers, snacks and hot chocolate. Each family also will receive a commemorative ornament, while supplies last.
And when sirens start roaring down the street, children shouldn't be alarmed. It's just a sign that Santa has come, as he will be ushered into town on a fire truck.
Donations of new and unwrapped toys will be collected by the Itasca Police Department to help local families in need. There will also be a mitten-and-hat tree to collect winter-wear donations for needy children.
Brogan said the event is not only fun for children and families, but economical for the village. He said many local businesses donate snacks or funds for the event, while many Itasca employees donate their time.
"It's not costing taxpayers too much money, and many people in Itasca are giving their time and energy," Brogan said. "In a time like this, you couldn't ask for a greater group of people."
Children can also take photos with Santa and check out exhibits like an ice carver. For details on Itasca's Night with Santa, call Brogan at (630) 228-5705 or e-mail rbrogan@itasca.com.
If you go
What: Night with Santa
When: 5:45 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 8
Where: Itasca Municipal Complex, 550 W. Irving Park Road, Itasca
Cost: Free
Info: (630) 228-5705 or rbrogan@itasca.com