For 29 years, the Mayor’s Enchanted Trolley Tour has ushered in the holiday season with treats, music, and an opportunity to meet the jolly old soul himself, Santa Claus. In 16 neighborhoods this weekend, a series of trolleys escorted Mr. and Mrs. Claus, Mayor Michelle Wu, and a cohort of local officials as they toured the city to light up trees and spread Christmas cheer to the children of Boston.

“It is an incredible honor to represent this community and to know that even in such complicated, hard, scary, and painful times in the world, this community always has each other’s back, and we are going to stand together in Boston,” said Wu. 

The Mayor was joined by Mix 104.1’s ‘Fast’ Freddie Murphy, Councillor At-Large Julia Mejia, 3rd Suffolk District Representative Lydia Edwards, 1st Suffolk Representative Adrian Madaro, and District 1 Councilor Gabriela Coletta Zapata. They extended a heartfelt thanks to the city and public safety workers, and Blackbird Donuts, Brasil Brasil, Spur Bar & Grill, and Taco Mex for making the day’s programming possible. 

“We know that Eastie shows up for one another all year long, but what I like to say is let’s use the street as an example for all of us to shine our brightest light this season. Take care of one another, be kind to one another,” said Coletta Zapata. 

She lauded East Boston’s numerous hard-working non-profit organizations and encouraged the community to support them in any way possible. “If you’re shopping this season, shop local to support our small businesses,” she added.

Edwards offered a shout-out to ZUMIX, whose teens opened the event with a series of Christmas carols. “​​ I want to give love to all the folks who are organizing, who are activists, who come together no matter what for this town and for everybody in here. Our diversity is our strength,” She added. “I am most proud of this neighborhood because we come from all different places and we shine our brightest light.”

After a brief introduction from Murphy, Claus emerged to cheers from the gathered children and families. In an exclusive to Caught, he shared his message to the children of Boston. “Have a good time, be true to yourself, and be kind to other people.”

As a special treat for the neighborhood, Maverick Square’s new signage was officially unveiled. “I’m an East Boston resident, I love my neighborhood, and I’m really happy to keep bringing color and energy to this neighborhood,” said designer Felipe Ortiz, thanking everyone involved for helping get the sign some much-needed TLC.

To keep the merriment moving through the holiday season, check out Caught In Southie’s second annual Holiday Stoop Stroll this Saturday. All proceeds benefit the South Boston Neighborhood House. Tickets can be purchased here.

Additionally, the Veronica Robles Cultural Center and East Boston Chamber of Commerce will host the fourth annual East Boston Holiday Bazaar on Sunday – a market featuring local vendors, music, and a special reappearance of Claus.

For more holiday programming, check out Caught In Eastie’s weekly guide.