A good-sized crowd gathered at the Farmington firehouse on Friday evening, Dec. 20 to share some homemade cookies, beverages and the chance to visit with Santa.

Hosted by the Farmington Fire Department, the annual community gathering also featured holiday music and some small gifts and candy canes for youngsters of all ages.

With the doors open at 6:30 p.m. the crowd began to filter in and enjoyed hot cider, hot chocolate, punch and coffee to go along with the variety of cookies, brownies and other treats.

Fire Chief Conni Bailey said they typically plan for about 150 children to turn out for the event, with families invited to pose for photos and the kids having the opportunity to share their holiday wishes with Santa. He and Mrs. Claus arrived on a fire truck, a crowd of excited onlookers waving as the rig approached the firehouse in the chilly evening air.

The annual Christmas party for the community has been hosted at the firehouse for several years.