ST. GEORGE — During his holiday travels, the man of the season, Santa Claus, made a stop Sunday morning at the Shivwits Reservation in his “desert sleigh” to bring joy to the local youth and tribal members.

Santa said he had to make accommodations since there was no snow, and he arrived in his “desert sleigh” with Mrs. Claus and a reindeer on the front leading the way. The Jeep was as black as coal with red and white candy canes, Christmas lights and garland.

To get the party going, the event started with festive decorations and a pancake breakfast at the Shivwits Community Health Center.

While the families were eating, Santa and Mrs. Claus pulled up, sneaking in as Shivwits Band Council Chairwoman Hope Silvas had the crowd sing “Jingle Bells.”

Children smiled and some jumped out of their seats and ran to hug Santa.

Santa and Mrs. Claus took a seat below a wreath by a Christmas tree and a snowman as Silvas started announcing the names of those receiving gifts.

Starting with the young kids, one by one, each went forward, sat on Santa’s lap, and received their gifts. Teenagers followed and then the elders.

Along with Santa and Mrs. Claus, a couple of elves and women from the National Daughters of the American Revolution Color Country Chapter assisted.

There were smiles, laughter, dancing and singing as each tribal member celebrated with family and friends and took their turn visiting with the Clauses. A man also imitated Elvis and performed “Blue Suede Shoes” before sitting on Santa’s lap.

Gifts included dolls, makeup, blankets, skateboards, fishing gear, gift cards and more.

But no matter what was given, the event brought smiles, even from the teens who seemed to be trying not to smile.

“We are just thankful that we have people who will come and help out in providing Santa,” Silvas said. “It means a lot to the kids. We are extremely grateful to them. They have always been to our events every year.”

When the time came, Santa and Mrs. Claus said they found it hard to leave as the children continued asking questions and giving hugs.

But as Santa sprung to his desert sleigh, he gave a honk on the horn and drove away with a wave and smile. And before he drove out of view, he said: “Merry Christmas to all and to all, a good new year, too.”

The toys and gifts were provided by the local Shivwits Toy Drive organized and coordinated by the M&S Turquoise business in downtown St. George at 53 E. St. George Boulevard.

The business will continue accepting toy and money donations through Christmas Day. Toys will be taken to children in need of a little Christmas joy, while money will assist in providing scholarships that benefit tribal members to attend college or further their education.

To make donations, contact M&S Turquoise at the store or by phone at 435-628-0393.

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