Mayor Carl Brewer and the Wichita City Council thanked residents who braved the cold weather to attend the event, which included a visit from Santa Claus on a fire truck, Christmas carols performed by the Newman University Troubadours and a fireworks show. Radio personality Brett Harris of B98 FM helped the Mayor host the tree-lighting event, which attracted 500 people to Kennedy Plaza.

“Your time and your generosity are gifts tonight and I want you to know how much we appreciate your presence,” said Mayor Brewer, who read “Twas The Night Before Christmas” to children in attendance. “I know that schedules are always busy during the holiday season, so sometimes just getting to an event is an accomplishment.”

“A Night With Santa” attracted about 3,500 people inside Century II’s Exhibition Hall. Other activities included photos with Santa, carnival games, Christmas cake walks, temporary tattoos, prize giveaways, letters to Santa and inflatable events.

Attendees donated about 1,000 canned food items to United Way of the Plains.

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