Santa arrived in Tamaqua on Friday night riding in a firetruck, then lighting the lights of Depot Square Park to kick off Tamaqua Spirit of Christmas weekend featuring indoor and outdoor activities.

Standing by the gazebo, master of ceremonies Anthony Odorizzi welcomed the crowd, huddled together in cold 27-degree air.

He spoke of the town’s rich tradition in welcoming Santa in one form or another, a time-honored passage that has evolved into its present format at the Schuylkill County community.

“This is the 29th Spirit of Christmas,” he said.

Keynote speaker Eric Zizelmann elaborated on the history theme, citing traditions of long ago, such as the special citrus gift of an orange at Christmas, and contrasting it with contemporary activities such as watching “The Grinch.”

Activities are passed from generation to generation, he said, and help define the holiday and make small town living special.

“Tamaqua is a great place to live.”

The choir of Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church entertained by singing the holiday’s most popular carols. Volunteer Linda Heigele handed out candles to accentuate the solemn theme.

The group’s performance began in darkness, serenading with “Silent Night” and other favorites. As they sang, a switch was thrown and, suddenly, bright, white lights of the town’s Christmas tree pierced the darkness.

Afterward, Santa arrived and led the crowd in a countdown to illuminate 40,000 colorful lights throughout the pocket park, located near the Five Points intersection.

Other volunteers served hot chocolate from a table set up on the train station platform.

Odorizzi credited many who stepped forward to make the event possible. They include Rob Filloy, Frank Fabrizio, Kyle Whitley, Tamaqua Borough, Tamaqua Train Station Restaurant, Little Miss Spirit Zyana Cardell, committee members and co-chairs Dan Odorizzi and Judy Hoppes.

The festival began indoors Thursday with a two-hour Mistletoe Reception at La Dolce Casa on West Broad Street attended by 75.