How hot was it Saturday?

It was so hot that even Santa Claus wore shorts during his visit to Tamaqua.

Santa, his helpers and numerous costumed characters from Sesame Street and Disney came to town as part of a Christmas in July festival.

The daylong event included a stop at the gazebo in Tamaqua park, a storytelling event with Frosty the Snowman at the Tamaqua Library, arts and crafts at Tink’s Antiques, an open house and toy display at the Tamaqua Historical Society and a Christmas in July church service at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church.

There also was an outdoor concert at the Tamaqua Station Restaurant by the duo It Takes Two.

Santa, the helpers and the characters initially met at the Tamaqua Community Arts Center, then walked to the gazebo and greeted anxious youngsters.

From there it was to the Library for stories with Frosty the Snowman.

After that, a Victorian tea was held at St. John Lutheran Church.

A meet-and-greet with Santa was held at Tink’s Antiques. This included the opportunity for children to purchase photos taken with Santa.

Santa’s helpers were comprised of members of the Tamaqua High School cheerleading squad. They are Ava Hess, Lauren Hill, Morgan Koch, Kailee Warner and Anna Zelinsky.

Members of the Tamaqua High School football team donned the character costumes. They are Gabe Coleman as Mickey Mouse, Morgan Miller as Minnie Mouse, Michael Stylka as Elmo, John Klein as the Cookie Monster and Luke Kane as a Minion.