With just over a week to go until Christmas, Santa is making an early stop in Chatham.
Resident Rick Bechard has been hard at work over the past three weeks getting his house all decked out for the holidays. On Friday night, Bechard is inviting families to a drive-up Christmas light show at his home.
According to Bechard, Santa and his family will also be making a special appearance and coming up to vehicle windows for special visits.
"It thought because of COVID, it would be nice to have the children be able to drive by and see Santa, [Mrs. Claus] and a couple of elves."
It is free to attend the event, however, Bechard is encouraging people to get into the holiday spirit by giving back.
"I got in touch with the Salvation Army. My vehicle will be there to put food donations in," he explained. "We'll have a red kettle here for donations."
Bechard said he has always loved the holidays and always goes all out when decorating for Christmas, Halloween and Easter. He also encouraged his neighbours to get in on the fun this year and go a little bit extra with the decorations.
Santa display at 83 Lincoln Rd in Chatham (Photo courtesy Rick Bechard)
"Something like this, this is the first year I've done it," he said. "If it goes over well, it's going to be a yearly thing."
Bechard said he's hoping for a great turnout and promises that if the event does happen next year, it will be even bigger and better.
Santa will be showing up around 5 p.m. Friday night at 83 Lincoln Rd in Chatham. The event runs until 8 p.m., but Bechard said he will let it go a little later if need be.
Bechard is asking that people follow the signs from the corner of Park Lane and Park Avenue that will be up, directing vehicles to Santa's house.
