As the name implies, it’s a holiday tradition that has been happening in the Town of Clarkson for decades: the Umpteenth Annual Best Little Christmas Party.
This year’s gathering was held Saturday, December 19 at the Clarkson Courthouse and children ages ten and under were welcome to attend with their families.
“We do it the same way every year,” said Clarkson Supervisor and Event Chairman Paul Kimball. “It’s a nice little Christmas party.” He said the town is not sure how many years the party has been held, but it’s been more than 50.
Children attending enjoyed a story, Christmas Carols, refreshments, a pinata and, of course, a visit from Old St. Nick, who explained the real meaning of the holiday – the birth of the Christ Child – and the significance of giving gifts.
“The gifts symbolize the love we have for each other,” Santa told the children.
In addition to Christmas presents, which he distributed to each child, Santa had a few requests for himself.
“You can leave me a ham and cheese sandwich,” he told one child, “I like a dill pickle too, sliced the long way.” St. Nick also requested carrots for his reindeer and asked one little girl for chocolate chip cookies.
From another child he requested an onion, “… for Rudolph. It makes his nose glow,” Santa explained.
The courtroom was festooned with Christmas decorations, including a very special holiday tree. Supervisor Kimball explained that the ornaments have been donated by Clarkson families over the years. Some of the ornaments are decades old and are personalized with the name of the donating family. Supervisor Kimball reminded those in attendance that Clarkson residents are welcome to continue the tradition. Ornaments can be dropped-off at the Town Hall, he said.
