BY TINA L. SCOTT
EDITOR
The Pine River Volunteer Fire Department will host their fourth annual Santa in the Firehouse at the Pine River Fire Station, N1622 Range Line Rd., Merrill, in the Town of Pine River east of Merrill this Saturday, Dec. 16, 2023, from 1 to 4 p.m.
“Santa will be on hand to hear your Christmas wish list, pose for pictures, and hand out treat bags,” organizers at the Pine River Fire Department said.
There is no cost, there will be cookies and treats, and in addition, there will be a drawing for kids to win. “Two lucky boys and girls will go home with brand new bicycles.”
There isn’t enough snow to land his sleigh at the Fire Station this year, so Santa will arrive via fire engine from the airport at 1 p.m., organizers said, and he is hoping a crowd of children will be there to greet him!
Before or after visiting with Santa, organizers encourage locals and visitors alike to make a visit to the Town of Pine River an annual tradition. “Make it a day in Pine River,” organizers say. “[There are] plenty of places to buy the perfect tree from our local farms.” At least three well-known area Christmas tree farms are located either on Center Rd. or Hwy. 64 in Pine River with options for pre-cut or cut-your-own Christmas trees; wreaths, kissing balls, and other evergreen decor available for purchase; and fun family festivities on site.