Ushering in the holiday spirit, the Gladys L. Lemmons Oakdale Senior Community Center was the site for a special dinner and program on Friday evening, Dec. 9.

The occasion was the annual holiday dinner at the senior center, 450 E. A St., where people gathered to listen to music, watched a couple of dance performances and also enjoyed a holiday-themed meal while sharing the good tidings of the season.

Volunteers gathered in service to local seniors to dish up the warm meal while the Silver Strummers ukulele band played many Christmas favorites, primarily instrumental but also singing along to a couple. Not to be outdone, members of the Silver Wahines were dancing their hearts away, doing hula dances to a few of the songs played by the band.

As the band began playing ‘I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas’ a guest made a grand appearance dressed in a large inflatable hippo costume and danced around the tables while shaking maracas, bringing smiles to many of those in attendance.

Santa also stopped by to settle in next to the Christmas tree and take lots of photos with anyone who wanted to pose with him.

As the festivities wound down, Santa strolled around the room to the song ‘Santa Claus is Coming to Town’ and delivered special presents to event coordinators, Alanna Bryant and Jane Finkenbine from the City of Oakdale.

The senior citizens attending seemed to have a blast being surrounded by their friends and family and enjoying a relaxing evening of sharing the Christmas spirit.

Even more holiday cheer is on the schedule at the local senior center, with the Oakdale Community Dance Band presenting its Christmas Concert/Dance on Thursday, Dec. 15 at 6:30 p.m.

This Christmas program will include many familiar holiday classics featuring talented local amateur and professional musicians. All are invited to attend this free event to dance or listen.

Then, the Oakdale Community Concert Band, under the direction of Ron Quintanal, will present its free Christmas Concert on Tuesday, Dec. 20 starting 6:30 p.m.