By MADDY VITALE
There was anything but “hushes” in the Ocean City Free Public Library on Sunday. In fact, no one was going to tell Santa Claus himself to be quiet.
Accompanied by music from a live band, the jolly fellow made his grand entrance at the Community Center’s Holiday Festival by sashaying down a staircase in the atrium to deliver a lot of good cheer and greet children anxiously awaiting his arrival.
The free event served as a showcase for the library, the Ocean City Historical Museum and other facilities housed inside the Community Center at 17th Street and Simpson Avenue.
As part of the festivities, the day included pictures with Santa, crafts with Mrs. Claus in the museum, listening to Christmas stories read by librarians, Christmas movies in the lecture hall and craft-making at other areas of the center. Sweets and other goodies filled the lecture hall free for the taking.
Eva Kalatsjov, of Ocean City, brought her children, Nicky, 8, Sophie, 4, and Olivia, 3, for the first time.
The family visited with Mrs. Claus, played by museum volunteer and board member Babs Stefano.
“I love Ocean City because it is a tight knit community. They do wonderful things for the kids here. The best kept secret is Ocean City,” Kalatsjov noted. “There really is something to do here with your family all year-round.”
The kids got to decorate felt miniature wreaths and mini-stockings.
“I’m giving this to my mom,” said Noelle Bickley, 5, of Ocean City.
Her mom, Janie Martin, smiled. “Thank you,” Martin said to her daughter.
Others came for a second year in a row because they liked it so much in 2018.
Phil Hodak, of Egg Harbor Township, brought his girls, Sequoia, 3, and 1-year-old Coral, for the big event.
“We came here last year, and we loved it,” Hodak said. “Sequoia really loved the music and the band last year.”
After Santa’s greetings, he jetted off into another room in the library to listen to children’s wish lists.
O.J. Brown, 3, of Ocean City, and his sister, Audrey, 5, each had specific requests for Santa Claus.
“I want Pop the Pig!” O.J. exclaimed.
Audrey said in a quiet voice, “I want a Barbie.”
The festival, in its 16th year, is always such a wonderful time for the children and their families, Library Director Karen Mahar said.
Director of Adult Programming Librarian Julie Howard added that the festival offers something for all ages.
She said that is what makes the festival so unique and special.
“It is always a good time,” Howard said. “We are very excited about this year’s event. We have a new band. Each year, families always have a good time.”
