HOLYOKE – They came for Santa and stayed for the cookies and cocoa.
The gathering brought together more than 500 students and their families for the annual holiday event at Maurice A. Donahue School on Thursday night.
With the help of volunteers, the children met Santa and had their photos taken, and received a gift donated by Toys for Tots.
Afterwards, the kids headed to the cafeteria for crafts, and a special treat of cookies and cocoa.
Special guests were Frosty the Snowman and Mrs. Frosty, along with Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, who added a festive touch to the event.
The festivities included holiday music performed by the Holyoke High School Choir.
The event was sponsored by the Hampden County Sheriff’s Department and Hamel’s Creative Catering.