The Catskill Chronicle

Story and photos by Carol Montana

MONTICELLO, NY (December 19, 2011) – Santa Claus was there, and his elves, too. There was a train, hot chocolate, cookies, a Toys-for-Tots collection, and a musically synchronized show  featuring nearly 68,000 lights.

It was the annual Santa Village at Hilltop Homes of Monticello created by owner Dave Dunlap, his wife Corrinne and their family.

While decorating begins around early October, it’s really the two nights that the Santa Village is open to the public that brings out the kid in everyone who volunteers their time to bring joy to the children and adults who visit.

Sources say that several thousand people visited this past weekend on Friday and Saturday, December 16 and 17.

Families brought toys for the Toys-for-Tots collection sponsored by the Marine Corps League, and then young and old alike delighted in the train ride aboard the Hilltop Express. As families walked around the spacious Santa Village, they saw trees and lights, and large balloon-type Christmas characters such as Toy Soldiers, Frosty and the Christmas Bear.

Some children headed straight for Santa’s Workshop where they visited with Santa and got a free photo taken. 

Others scurried toward the smiling elves to sample the free hot chocolate, and sugar and chocolate chip cookies.

The photos with Santa were available in a separate building where Christmas mugs and other items were for sale, with all proceeds going to benefit Sullivan County CASA. Additional copies of the photos were available for a $5 donation to Sullivan County CASA.

On the second night, Thunder 102 radio was broadcasting live and country music duo Somerville were on hand to provide entertainment.

Below are some photos from opening night. Click the link below to see more photos.

To see more photos or to purchase prints from Santa Village Delights Kids of all Ages, visit The Catskill Chronicle on Zenfolio.