Christmas is a great time to be a kid — or a kid at heart. All of us who enjoy looking at Christmas lights and decorations during the holiday are certainly in luck in Washington Parish.

Over the years, Christmas in the Park at Cassidy Park has become a popular destination for many Bogalusa residents as well as those from around the parish. The many colored lights throughout the park certainly are a must-see for everyone. Col. Bob Miller has worked diligently to make the event beautiful.

A more hidden gem during the holiday season is Santa Claus in the Country. When we say it’s in the country, it certainly is. You have to be going there to find it. It’s located at 57277 Royce Thomas Road, a few miles past Ben’s Ford Christian School. It’s definitely worth the drive. It is open from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. until Dec. 23 and is closed on Sundays and Wednesday nights.

Darron Thomas is a one-man operation when it comes to Santa Claus in the Country. He strung thousands of Christmas lights on top of his house and around his front yard with synchronized music for full affect. The twinkling lights put visitors in the mindset of holidays of yore. The idea behind the project is to let children gain a sense the true meaning of the season.

If that wasn’t enough, Thomas dons a Santa suit and waits for children to visit with their parents as the cars come up the lighted driveway, where he gives each and every child a lollipop.

The Daily News salutes Mr. Thomas for his diligence in making Santa Claus and Christmas come to life. Bogalusa and Washington Parish residents are better for the work of all who try to make the holiday season a joyous one, especially for the children.