Poughkeepsie Journal: Children, families take photos with Santa Claus on the Walkway

Santa Claus made an appearance at the Walkway Over the Hudson on Friday afternoon, and a long line of children and parents trailed behind him.

The event, which was free and open to the public, invited local families to have a photo opportunity with St. Nick on the day after Thanksgiving. The role of Santa was portrayed by longtime Walkway volunteer Don Cady, and crews brought in animals like donkeys for people to pet.

There was also hot cocoa and mini peppermint sticks available.

City of Poughkeepsie residents Javier and Mercedes Tapia were with their three young children at the Walkway before the 1 p.m. start time.

“We decided to come here today to meet Santa for our kids,” Javier Tapia said. “And also the joy of our family being together and sharing a moment of Christmas.”