With Christmas quickly approaching, kids are more than a little enthusiastic to express their holiday spirit, and Pine Mountain State Park has provided them with the opportunity to satisfy this excitement by meeting with their favorite seasonal character: Santa Claus himself.

The event, which is scheduled to continue throughout the following weekends, kicked off on Saturday, as kids and parents alike filled the park to eagerly await Santa’s arrival.

Fresh cookies and cocoa were provided to attendees as they met — and shared last minute Christmas lists — with Ol’ St. Nick, making this the perfect event for both the young and the young at heart to relish in the holiday spirit.

“We have ate lots of cookies, drank enough cocoa to float a battleship and sent in those last minute gift requests to the man himself,” said Park Ranger Keith Bowling. “The kids seem to really be enjoying themselves and that’s what it’s all about.”

According to Bowling, the park received a rather impressive turnout for the first-time event, with even more projected to attend next weekend.

The fun will continue Dec. 9, as well as Dec. 16, when Santa will stray from the North Pole once again to take last minute requests from excited children. He is scheduled to arrive at 10 a.m. and stay until noon. It is completely free of charge, and the park staff encourages parents throughout the area to bring their children out to participate in the fun.