Crowds packed Padanaram on Dec. 7 for the village’s annual Christmas Festival, which featured popcorn, dancers, and a special guest: Santa Claus.

The annual tradition brings families and friends to the village to celebrate and do a little shopping.At around 6 p.m., Dartmouth police cleared the crowds off Elm St. for the arrival of the star of the evening: Santa, who was chauffeured in Fire District No. 1’s newest fire engine.

Santa was preceded by dancers from Dancer’s Edge, who performed with light-up wreaths.

Children got to meet Santa and pose for a picture — which they could follow with a picture with the Grinch, stationed in Anne Whiting’s office.

One new business was offering a counter-intuitive treat on the cold night. Village Harbor Sweets opened yesterday, and owner Marissa Massucco was busy scooping gelato for the revelers.

Massucco said that business was going well so far, “especially in the winter!”

Her shop also features affogato, an espresso drink combined with gelato, candy, and all natural floats. All the sweets are all natural — even the sprinkles. Village Harbor Sweets will be open year-round.

The festival is sponsored by the Padanaram Business Association.