Photo Gallery: Christmas Comes to IB

In its eighth year, Christmas Comes to IB was held Saturday from noon to sunset in . As has become tradition, the 30-foot tall Christmas tree that was delivered to IB earlier this week was lit at the end of the event.

Sandcastle building teams I.B. Posse and Sand Squirrels built a snowman, three angels and Christmas tree near the pier. This is the first year the sandcastle building teams have participated in the competition.

At 1 p.m. Santa arrived by way of escort by the Imperial Beach Fire Department.

Almost immediately children swarmed Saint Nicholas and a line with more than 50 parents and children at times told Santa for hours what they want for Christmas. The Grinch and Mrs. Claus were also there.

There was also a petting zoo, arts and crafts, free massages, pony rides and a petting zoo with rabbits and chickens.

Each child attending the free event was given a raffle ticket, and toys were raffled off to people in the crowd throughout the event, including nine bicycles.

The , Business Improvement District volunteers and volunteers organized the event. Thirty-nine different sponsors from the local community and businesses made the event possible. Local residents also donated toys and volunteered.