SYRACUSE — The atmosphere at Syracuse Community Center Saturday morning, Dec. 7, was charged with excitement as over 200 children of all ages came to visit Santa.

There was plenty to do for those who came while they waited to see Santa or after their visit with the jolly Ole St. Nick.

Local groups from Lakeland Youth Center, Syracuse Public Library, Syracuse-Wawasee Historical Society had craft opportunities available to make or kits to take and make at home. Kids and adults, could write letters to Santa to place in his special mailbox, create their own reindeer antler head bands or picture foam ornaments, create a paper Christmas tree and yarn and stick ornaments. You could even make a small bag of deer feed to put out for Santa’s reindeer.

A breakfast of pancakes and sausage was served by members of the Wawasee Kiwanis, while Boy Scout Troop 738 had homemade cookies available. The Wawasee High School Band provided a wide range of Christmas/holiday music for those who gathered for the breakfast, which was enjoyed by all ages with appreciation shown by applause after each song.

In addition to each child taking home a craft, a take home photo keepsake from his or her visit with Santa was provided by members of the Knights of Columbus.