There’s nothing quite like a teddy bear at Christmas.

And Santa Claus will have an assortment of cute and cuddly ones to deliver to every girl and boy, young and old, on Saturday when the Grange Hall in Friday Harbor is magically transformed into “Christmas Island.”

Beginning at 4 p.m., the Grange Hall will be the setting of Santa’s workshop as St. Nick and his band of elves take time out from a busy schedule to entertain islanders of all ages with cherished Christmas stories and time-honored holiday traditions.

There will be ornaments to make, popcorn to string, trees to decorate, homemade cookies to nibble on and Christmas songs to be sung.

Gather around Santa as he sits beside a crackling fire and spins a Christmas tale or two as part of this three-hour holiday tour de force. Santa will be in his workshop between 4-7 p.m.

Noted photographer Mark Gardner will be on hand to take photos of children with Santa Claus.

Christmas Island is a free event and there’s no charge or fee. According to a spokes-elf, the only obligation is enjoying the spirit of Christmas and sharing a very traditional, old-fashioned holiday celebration.

To keep in mind: Santa routinely checks his e-mail and he’d like to hear from you. He can be reached at Santa@rockisland.com.

This event is not affiliated with any organization or cause and is simply a gift from Kris Kringle, aka Santa Claus, to the people of San Juan Island.