Families gathered at the Ranson Civic Center for the annual Pizza with Santa event.
Started in 2012, the event has become a popular tradition, drawing attendees from near and far. It offers crafts, a chance to meet Santa, delicious pizza, and opportunities to win great prizes.
One of the most sought-after prizes is a bicycle, a tradition started by the late Jeff Haymaker, a local realtor. He initially donated two bikes as prizes for the Ranson Festival. The bicycle giveaway remains a highlight of the Pizza with Santa event, with continued support from the Jeff Haymaker Memorial Foundation.
Families with children of all ages enjoyed pizza, provided by event sponsor Pizza City, which has been a key partner since the event began.
“We usually go through 58-72 pizzas,” said Pizza City owner Mike Anderson, who, along with his staff, prepared the pizzas throughout the day.
In addition to pizza, attendees participated in various activities set up throughout the Civic Center, many of which were run by volunteers. The gymnasium was open for children to play and burn off some energy.
“We have a lot of volunteers,” said Scott Coulter, a member of the Ranson Parks and Recreation Commission. He helped serve pizza, along with several young volunteers.
Other volunteers ran arts and crafts tables and coordinated visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, who arrived in a ride provided by one of Ranson’s police officers.
“This is such a wonderful event,” said Thomasa Vandell, who attended with her daughter Audrey and friends Beth Barnes and her daughter Marisol.
“The girls love doing the crafts, and of course, they look forward to seeing Santa,” Barnes added. “We’re lucky to have so many activities like this in our community.”
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