Santa Visits the Sherman Green in Fairfield

Operation Santa Claus drew many Fairfield residents from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday to the Sherman Green. The event planned by the Fairfield Chamber of Commerce was met with beautiful spring-like weather -- even though it took place two days after Thanksgiving.

Many children waited in line with their parents for a photo with Santa and his helpers Dani Corrigan and Hannah Clarke, both 11-year-old Fairfield Woods Middle School students. The line extended from the gazebo, where Santa sat, down the steps and through the crowd.

"This is a feel-good community event," said Patricia Ritchie, president and CEO of the Fairfield Chamber of Commerce. Ritchie spoke of the many families and community members who attend and volunteer each year. This year was no exception.

Families like the Newquists have been a part of the event on the Sherman Green for 10 years. The Newquists have been making gingerbread houses and packaging them with all the trimmings to provide a gingerbread house kit for other families to enjoy. Katherine Newquist, 16, said she started when she was 6 years old. "All profits go to the Pediatric Department in Bridgeport Hospital," she said.

The family prepares for the event several weeks in advance each year. In the first few years of participating the Newquists had to start making the kits in August to be ready in time. Trini Newquist spoke highly of all involved in the annual event. "The Chamber of Commerce is amazing," Trini Newquist said. "They've been so helpful."

In addition to a petting zoo, food, gingerbread houses, Santa, horse-drawn carriage rides and much more, there was a children’s book drive, sponsored by the Junior League of Eastern Fairfield County.

To find out more about how to participate, volunteer, sponsor or attend next year's 'Operation Santa Claus,' contact the Fairfield Chamber of Commerce at www.FairfieldCTChamber.com.