Friday Harbor bustled with the holiday spirit of mirth and fun as Santa’s Helpers filled the stores and streets in these days leading up to Dec. 25.

Many people were lucky enough to spot Santa and his helpers around San Juan Island spreading cheer to children and families. Despite the weather, children had a glimpse of Santa’s beard and red suit flashing by as San Juan Island Fire and Rescue gave Santa a lift down Spring Street on Dec. 19.

Several families reported how thankful they were that they were able to see Santa. Evelyn and Jodi Rock showed up early, sitting on a bench by the roundabout.

“We wanted to get here to see Santa,” said Jodi Rock, Evelyn’s mom.

Others were standing on street corners, and some were waiting in Roche Harbor for the firetruck to go by.

“Our daughter is one and a half years old,” Max and Chelo said, “This really is her first Christmas. She is so excited to see Santa. She just loves everything about Santa. It’s so great that, even with COVID, Santa is still something that kids can see here on San Juan Island. COVID is so hard on families right now. We really appreciate this time to see Santa!”

One of Santa’s helpers, Steve McMurtrie, said that Santa was so happy to see the kids on San Juan again.

San Juan Public Library and Joyce E. Sobel Resource Center hosted Santa, Mrs. Santa, and one of Santa’s elves, who also appeared on Dec. 19. For several hours, they were seen handing out presents to kids whose parents drove them up to the porch of the Joyce E. Sobel Resource Center.

Gingerbread houses were on display in the windows of 260 Spring Street as part of San Juan Builders Association’s first-ever gingerbread house contest and boats sailed through the harbor adorned with lights.

All week long, holiday cheer warmed the smiling faces of helpers throughout the town.