Santa Claus rode into town December 2 with a squadron of police motorcycles as escort on top of a fire truck instead of a sleigh. A fun time was had by children young and old, and the city of Somerville cheered as the giant Christmas tree lit up the night sky.

Yuletide festivities were highlighted by the Somerville High School band and chorus, who sang traditional Christmas songs. Mayor Joseph Curtatone, joined by his family, dropped the candy-cane colored switch with Santa at his side, and the bejewelled light display brightened the faces of all.

Santa than went into the high school, and gave out toys to well-behaved children. The mayor’s office made sure there was enough hot cocoa and fresh cookies for everyone to stay warm.