Shortly after the large pine tree outside of Springfield's Town Hall was lit with Christmas lights, gusts of wind hit it with enough force to make the large tree sway. 

The lights held, but the moment illustrated the chill the dozens of families who turned out for Springfield's holiday celebration faced. Holiday cheer ruled the evening despite the weather.

"For a cold night, I'm happy so many people came out," Springfield Director of Recreation Michael Tennaro said. 

The highlight of the event was when Santa Claus climbed down from the Town Hall roof on a fire truck ladder, landed in the crowd and was swarmed by children.

As old Kris Kringle conferred with Springfield's youngsters on their Christmas wishes, other family members gathered in the garage of the Springfield First Aid Squad to enjoy coffee and donuts provided by Springfield's chapter of the Firemen's Mutual Benevolent Association. 

"We always like to give back to the community," FMBA President Joe Popolo said.