Parents can sign their little ones up for a call from Santa during the fifth annual Christmas Gala in Pottsville.
"It's really neat," said Bob Thomas, organizer of the event for the Pulaski Masonic Lodge 216, Pottsville.
An organization suggested the call from Santa and Thomas said he thought it was a good idea.
At a predetermined time, Santa will call the children at their home. He can call back if they are not there, Thomas said.
This year's gala is from 3 to 8 p.m Saturday and Sunday, and Dec. 8 and 9 at 4 S. Second St.
Santa will meet children on the fourth floor of the building for free pictures as he did last year. Pets can also have their picture taken with Santa. Trains will be on display during that time. Entertainment is also part of the free festivities.
Trees are donated by local growers to benefit the less fortunate and are decorated by various organizations. Those trees are put on display for all to view.
Last year, about 1,500 people stopped by and admired the decorated trees.
This year, 25 Christmas trees were donated for those in need as part of the event.
Five local growers donated the trees including Fidler's Tree Farm, Schuylkill Haven, which donated four trees. Ralph Fidler, owner, said it is a way to give back to the community.
"What they're doing is good," he said. He donated two Douglas firs and two concolor fir trees.
Last year, 20 trees were given to individuals who might not be able to get a tree. Sponsors decorate the tree and can request the recipient. Organizations are contacted to see if they know someone who would appreciate a tree, said Zane Rist, a member of the Christmas Gala Committee.
Seven of the trees have already been decorated. Visitors can vote for their favorite tree. Two trophies will be awarded, people's choice and judges choice, at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 9.
Shelley Hikes, 46, director of Child Evangelism Fellowship, a bible study club based in Hegins, said this is the third year the group has sponsored a tree. She said the tree is a way to spread the message of Jesus. The different colors on the tree - gold, silver, green and red - all have a meaning, she said. For example, the gold signifies heaven and the love of God. A big red bow adorned the top of the tree.
Children from Trinity Lutheran Church also decorated a tree Monday.
Linda Grube, youth director, said the church has decorated a tree for each of the gala's five years, "so the kids in the church can experience giving something to the other people without getting anything back."
Red and gold balls, small angels made with ribbon and a round Christmas bell, red and gold ribbon and an angel adorned the tree.
Gretchen Frederick, 6, of Port Carbon, hung a gold ball on the tree as her mother, Kim Lewis, watched.
"She knows that it's going to go to a needy family," Lewis said of the tree.
Individuals can call 570-622-9260 if they are in need of a tree.