Two-year-old Brecklynn DeClercq, of Kewanee, stares in wonder at the sight of Santa Claus at Sunday’s Holly Jolly Festival. [Photo by Dave Clarke]

In spite of a bright winter sun, temperatures in the low 20s chilled by a cold north wind forced those attending the Holly Jolly Festival at Wethersfield High School Sunday afternoon to dress warmly.

A light overnight snow added to the seasonal setting in the Blish parking lot behind the high school.

Cecelia Lucas, 8, of Kewanee, pats a real, live reindeer at The Wethersfield Student Council’s Holly Jolly Festival Sunday. [Photo By Dave Clarke]

In spite of the frigid weather, a decent crowd that would have made a good North Face commercial showed up to play games, pat the reindeer and enjoy hot chocolate.

By far the longest line at Sunday’s Holly Jolly Festival was the hot chocolate stand staffed by warmly dressed Student Council members. [Photo by Dave Clarke]
Nothing like a good game of ring toss to warm you up on a cold day at Holly Jolly Festival! [Photo by Dave Clarke]

Kids could also meet in the ag shop with Santa Claus to discuss their naughty-or-nice status.

A live reindeer from Prairie Moon Reindeer Farm, near Knoxville, also made his (or her) annual appearance to greet the children and provide photo ops for their parents.

A deejay was also on hand to fill the air with Christmas music and provide running commentary throughout the two-hour festival.

Children were warmly bundled in blankets and stocking hats for the ride in the mini train. [Photo by Dave Clarke]

The event, a community service sponsored by the WHS Student Council, was replaced last year by a Community Christmas Dinner in the gym. The biennial plan is to alternate each year between the dinner and the festival.

The next Holly Jolly Christmas will be held in December of 2027.

Both events are scheduled on the same Sunday as the lighted Christmas parade and lighting of the displays at Windmont and Northeast parks.