On Thursday, November 30, at 1:30 p.m. sharp Santa Claus led a group of over 200 Gilpin County Elementary School students and their teachers down the sidewalks along Main Street to the town’s Christmas tree. Santa (or Father Christmas as Central City’s original Cornish and Welsh hard rock miners called him) is nothing if not punctual. After all, it would be impossible to deliver presents to all of the children across the world in one night if he weren’t.

The kids held handmade ornaments that they had thoughtfully created in preparation for this special day. Once at the towering and already beautifully appointed but as of yet unfinished tree, they hung them with care and enjoyed some personal time with Santa. He would do his best to fulfill their wishes, but logistically, in truth, could probably only produce so many ponies. As a prelude to the Christmas holidays, all of the children would receive a gift of some kind just for being kids and once again officially kicking off the four-day event.

Following the Christmas tree decorating, the kids attended a party at the Teller House with Santa and Mrs. Claus. A professional storyteller grabbed the children’s rapt attention as they sat cross-legged on the floor and she spun her animated yarns. Live holiday music performances by students and caroling evoked Christmas spirit.

With the afternoon’s festivities at a close, as the schoolchildren headed out the door, Central City Lady Elks Auxiliary members handed them gift bags containing cookies, fruit, toys, and other goodies.