MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif. -- Marine Corps Community Services held the 5th Annual Children's Christmas Carnival, Dec. 7, for children of Department of Defense personnel here.
Children of all ages, including the grownup variety, filled the Youth Sports Complex playing games, riding rides and waiting for a visit from the North Pole's most famous resident, Santa Claus.
Shortly after the carnival started, three of Santa's helpers arrived in style aboard two of Miramar Fire Department's fire engines and a convertible to hear each child's Christmas wishes.
For some families, the Christmas Carnival was more than just another Saturday with their loved ones - it was a way to make up for past absent Christmases. However, whether or not both parents were around for Yuletide last year, children felt three things this year - love, happiness and togetherness.
"This is really great, there's so much for the children to do," said Elaine Ramsey, who brought her 2-year-old-son, Owen. "Owen is really looking forward to seeing Santa."
Along with the rides and Santa visit, MCCS also arranged for a petting zoo and demonstration by a San Diego Zoo zookeeper. Snakes, turtles and "Mo," a baby monkey, were on hand.
One of the final events of the carnival was a raffle, where dozens of gifts were given away to a crowd of hopefuls. Ice cream and pizza parties, two bicycles and a game system were given away before the crowd headed across the street to the Station Theater for a free showing of "Jonah: A Veggie Tales Movie."
Approximately 2,000 families attended the carnival, intended as a tribute to military families, according to Denise Fairbanks, MCCS special events coordinator.
Though lines were long, especially for Santa, most didn't seem to mind.
"This is my son's first visit to Santa Claus," said Sgt. Justin Wells, Provost Marshal's office, who also brought along his 6-year-old daughter, Alicia, and wife, Chantra. "It's worth it just for that.
"It's great that we have such a family-oriented event at Miramar," added Wells, as Alicia tugged on his hand.
"Come on, Daddy," said the excited little girl. "Let's see what's over there."