FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. (WSVN) – For one night only, part of South Florida’s Las Olas neighborhood in Fort Lauderdale was transformed into a winter wonderland for families to bring children and have fun Thursday.

7News cameras captured children and their families enjoying the multiple events offered such as ice skating, pictures with Santa Claus, live performances, sledding, and other holiday activities.

“It was fun, but the second push was a little bit hard.” said Noah Omar, who went sledding.

The event has occurred annually for six decades. This year it took place between Southeast Sixth Avenue and Southeast 11th Avenue.

“We’re right here on the riverfront at Las Olas Fort Lauderdale, come check us out.” said a participant at the event.

Another attendee at the event, Allan Montgomery, shared his excitement as well.

“It’s a great start to the holiday season.” said Montgomery.

Others enjoyed the food and drinks at the event, with drinks being a major highlight.

“It’s actually called Santa’s Little Helper, it’s clarified strawberry yuzu milk punch, and it’s topped off with a maccha foam.” said Damien Castillo
Ukiah Japanese Smokehouse head bartender.

Tabitha Oshea, a waitress at the event, shared that serving drinks helped attendees feel happy.

“And we’re serving some hot chocolate just to get into that Christmas spirit. ” said Oshea.

The Vice President of the Las Olas Association, Jodi Tanner, shared her thoughts on the event as well.

“This is why we do this, we put this on for the community to enjoy the festivities of the holidays and start the holidays off.’” said Tanner.

The event was free to enter, and ran from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

“Every year we come here because it’s the best.” said a participant at the event.

Organizers says the one day event got people into the Christmas spirit and that they have already begun to plan next year’s event.

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