Santa Set to Bring the North Pole to Bradenton on Saturday

Manatee County Parks will host the popular “A Night Before Christmas” celebration on Saturday when Santa will bring 10 tons of snow to the park with him.

Mr. Kringle will fly in by helicopted for the Dec. 1 event and will arrive promptly at 4 p.m. This is one of the county's favorite events as 10 tons of snow help turn G.T. Bray into the North Pole for an afternoon and evening.

The event at the park, 5502 33rd Ave. Dr. W, will include a huge inflatable slide, bounce houses, a trampoline power jump, hayrides, cookie crafts and the 10 tons of snow, of course. The highlight of the day is a visit from the Jolly One himself. Concessions will be available for purchase.

“It’s a fun, family event that’s free and open to ‘kids’ of all ages,” said Bridget Frattallone, Parks and Recreation marketing specialist. “Children go absolutely nuts when they see Kris Kringle drop in from the sky. And of course, parents love the looks on their kids’ faces. It’s a great photo opportunity before the holidays.”

For more information, visit www.mymanatee.org/parks or follow Parks on Facebook at www.facebook.com/manateecounty.parksandrecreation