SPANISH FORT, Ala.—Spanish Fort’s littlest residents can expect a visit from an exceptionally special guest Thursday at 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center.

Sources close to the story are revealing few details, however, as the city’s fourth annual reading of Clement Clarke Moore’s “Twas the Night Before Christmas” draws closer.

“I’m told he has an affinity for cookies, which is why he sometimes shakes like a bowl full of jelly when he laughs, but I really can’t say any more than that,” said one facility employee who asked to remain anonymous to maintain her “good” list status.

The festivities begin at 7 p.m. in 5 Rivers’ Longleaf Room, and children are encouraged to wear their pajamas and bring their favorite blanket, so they can settle in comfortably for story time.

Hot cocoa and cookies are rumored to follow, and several distinguished guests — including Debbie Bonner, Bess Marks, Rep. Randy Davis, David Conner and Cris Smith — have agreed to lend their reading voices while those in attendance await the guest of honor.

The 5 Rivers staff also wants to remind children of all ages about the third annual Holiday Celebration and Kayak Flotilla, slated for noon to 3 p.m. Saturday.

From swampy sleigh rides to a flotilla of decked out kayaks and canoes, the 2009 event attracted nearly 200 revelers to an authentic delta holiday celebration, complete with arts and crafts, live music and an array of other activities. Bluegrass favorite Delta Reign will provide musical entertainment.