A crowd of more than 100 gathered Saturday evening amid rainy and blustery conditions to celebrate the annual “Christmas in the Park” tree-lighting ceremony at Soldotna Creek Park. The evening began with guests being treated to Christmas carols sung by the Kenai Central High School choir and the Soldotna High swing choir on the band festival stage. Guests were also treated to hot beverages provided by Kaladi Brothers Coffee. After the singing performances, Santa Claus arrived in a Central Emergency Services fire truck and led the countdown to the tree lighting, then took gift requests from children. CES also allowed young guests to take a look at their fire truck after meeting Santa.

Santa Claus listens to requests from children Saturday, Dec. 1 at the Christmas in the Park tree-lighting ceremony at Soldotna Creek Park, in Soldotna, Alaska. (Photo by Joey Klecka/Peninsula Clarion)

Guests enjoy hot beverages provided by Kaladi Brothers Coffee Saturday, Dec. 1 at the Christmas in the Park tree-lighting ceremony at Soldotna Creek Park, in Soldotna, Alaska. (Photo by Joey Klecka/Peninsula Clarion)

Members of the Kenai Central High School choir treat guests to holiday music Saturday, Dec. 1 at the Christmas in the Park tree-lighting ceremony at Soldotna Creek Park, in Soldotna, Alaska.. (Photo by Joey Klecka/Peninsula Clarion)