CULLMAN, Ala. – Cullman Fire Rescue hosted its annual Santa Ride event Sunday evening, Dec. 21.
Cullman Fire Rescue Firefighter/Engineer Jeremy White said the big man himself, Santa Claus, was aboard the fire engine and escorted around town, down neighborhood streets, waving at residents.
“The joy this event brings to the community is one of my favorite things about the event,” White said. “The looks on the kids’ and adults’ faces just makes it awesome to be a part of.”
White said Cullman Fire Rescue’s Santa Ride has been happening for six or seven years, and the coverage area has grown tremendously.
“We will have one firetruck, three to four firefighters and our Santa on board,” he said. “This will be strictly volunteer work from the guys at Cullman Fire Rescue. I’m honored to be a part of a department that gives back to the community and takes the extra steps to be a part of this community. I grew up here and to be part of this is a privilege.”
Fire Chief Darren Peeples said it’s really a surprise how big the community response is.
“We get questions right after Thanksgiving as to when we will have Santa in the fire truck,” he said. “I am thankful that our firefighters initiated this about seven years ago and they continue to make it happen each year.”
