On Saturday night, the little firehouse on Shoal Line Blvd. was a place for Hernando Beach residents to enjoy the annual holiday tradition.
The day began with a creative selection of arts and crafts that showcased local artistic talent and holiday spirit.
As the sun dipped into the horizon, visitors awaited the lighting ceremony, a tradition that Capt. Tim LaRoche enjoyed when he worked for the Spring Hill Fire Rescue.
“We had a really good thing that was going on at Station 2 (Spring Hill). We would do the lighting ceremony, bring in Santa Claus and fun activities for the kids,” Capt. Tim LaRoche said. “It was a good time, the public loved it and looked forward to it every year.”
Firefighters decorated the Hernando Beach Firehouse this year with a wonderful display of holiday lights. When the switch was turned on, faces in the crowd lit up with excitement.
Hot cocoa and cookies were provided and Santa stopped by on a fire truck expressing his holiday cheer.
“It’s an opportunity for us to say thank you; thank you for just open arms and letting us come in here and serve them,” Capt. Tim LaRoche said. “The community is awesome, we love being here and we’re happy to be a part of all of this.
