The Christmas season officially arrived in Lansford, Saturday night.

Santa arrived. The Christmas trees in the borough park were lit. There was caroling, free horse-and-buggy rides for children, musical entertainment, the naming of Little Miss Snowflake, and even wrapped presents for all who attended.Several hundred people ignored biting cold temperatures to attend the festive event, sponsored by the Lansford Alive Improvement Committee.Marie Ondrus served as the master of ceremonies, assisted by Kerry Dowd of Radio Station WMGH, Lansford.Jackie Kokinda, a fifth grade student from Nesquehoning, was named Little Miss Snowflakes.Other finalists were Lilith Fogel of Coaldale, Sierra Bauer of Summit Hill, and Kendra Kerhli of Lansford.Judging was from an essay contest that students from the Panther Valley towns submitted.Taylor Horvat sang songs, accompanied by guitarist Colin Jones. At one point, a group of children sang carols in the park gazebo.Some selections also were performed by members of the Panther Valley High School band.Santa arrived on a fire truck supplied by the American Hose Company of Lansford. Playing the role of St. Nick was Chris Ondrus.He was accompanied by two female helpers, Janelle Balliet and Morgan Rosohac.Three large trees adorned with blue lights were lit after Santa arrived.Marie Ondrus said the program was run as a result of donations.Anyone wanting to contribute for the program to be held in 2014 should send donations to: Lansford Alive Improvement Committee, P. O. Box 172, Lansford, PA 18232.