Temple Celebrates Its First Bend o’ the River Christmas [PHOTOS]

On Saturday, Dec. 17, Temple Parks and Recreation held their first Bend o' the River Christmas celebration.

"The department wanted to do another Christmas event in addition to the Christmas parade. We are anticipating approximately 1,000 people over the course of the night", said Parks and Recreation Marketing Coordinator Jonathan Logue.

The ticket for the event included many different family-friendly activities that made for a wonderful Saturday evening. From face painting to a horse-drawn carriage ride, children of all ages fulfilled their desire for adventure, laughing and making lasting fun-filled memories.

The event even included a snow-covered downhill slide.

As the evening sun blanketed the sky, children began enjoying a snowfall only found in Central Texas.

Blessed in Texas was one of several local vendors offering unique and personalizing gifts ideas.

And of course, the evening would not be complete without a visit from Santa Claus himself.