DAPHNE, Ala. — Santa-America set off on a mission to spread love, hope and joy throughout Mobile Bay during Thanksgiving Weekend.

Santa and his elves illuminated the grounds at Bellingrath Gardens and Home for the 13th Annual Holiday Light Show “Magic Christmas in Lights.” Santa then read “Twas the Night Before Christmas” to children.

In Orange Beach, Santa arrived on a city fire truck and lit The Wharf’s 40-foot Christmas tree. He then took pictures with hundreds of children and heard their wishes for the holiday season. Santa also watched them hone their skills on the ice skating rink. Buffalo Rock Pepsi and The Wharf donated a portion of the ice rink ticket sale proceeds to support Santa-America’s special-needs children.

To complete the Thanksgiving weekend, Santa spent the weekend at Fish River Tree Farm. Santa, his elves and live reindeer, greeted families and created memories for all those in attendance. Families were also treated to a special “Santa-America Parade.” Fish River Christmas Tree Farm makes a donation to Santa-America for every Christmas tree sold during the season. Call (251) 988-8114 for more information.

Founded in 2003, Santa-America is a national non-profit volunteer service organization that offers Santa Claus visits to children and families in crisis 365 days a year. Santa nurtures children and their families by giving compassion during an emotionally stressful time of their life.

To learn more about Santa-America, visit www.santa-america.org, or contact Elf Cathy Barnette at (251) 379-0462.