For over three decades, the arrival of Santa has meant more than just a glimpse of a man in a red and white suit in Questa. It has meant generosity, community and the kind of Christmas magic that lingers long after the lights come down.

On Dec. 13, Santas Helpers del Norte once again delivered that magic, welcoming families from Questa and surrounding communities for its annual holiday gift giveaway. Cars stretched down N. Kiowa road, some waiting up to an hour, as children bundled in winter coats eagerly anticipated a moment with Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus and even a surprise visit from the Grinch.

More than 300 children waited their turn, eyes wide and smiles growing as the “big guy” and his wife arrived in festive fashion — riding in on a trike, escorted by Santa’s helpers and elves. For many families, the wait was part of the joy, filled with laughter, waving hands and the shared excitement of the season.

Each child left with a free toy and a memory, but the event offered something deeper as well: reassurance that their community cares.

Santas Helpers del Norte is organized by a group of local families led by Defino “Joey” Ortega, who has been involved with the effort since the early 1990s. What began as a small act of kindness has grown into a tradition that generations of families now count on every December.

That joy does not happen by accident. The group fundraises throughout the year, relying on donations, volunteer time and community support to ensure Santa can return each Christmas with gifts in hand and cheer to spare.

Parents watched from car windows as their children met Santa and Mrs. Claus, posed for photos and shared holiday wishes. For a few moments, worries were set aside, replaced by laughter and the simple wonder of the season.

As the final cars rolled through and the last toys were handed out, Santas Helpers del Norte once again proved that Christmas spirit is not measured by size or spectacle, but by consistency, kindness and the people willing to give year after year.