Holiday festivities in Commercial Park had added bonus of a fresh coat of snow

Horse-drawn carriages, snow people, snowball fights, frosty noses, warmth from the "campfire," cookies, gifts, crafts and Santa were all part of the holiday celebrations in Commercial Park on Dec. 4. The annual Park Advisory Council event brought in over 350 people who were all ready to party.

Outside families gathered near  a "campfire" area waiting to enjoy a ride in one of the two horse-drawn carriages. Circling the Park, participants experienced what area residents enjoyed on a regular basis over 100 years ago.

Families wait by "camp fires" for carriage ride

Snow people stand behind their benches

Blanketed with snow, the park's sports field was perfect for the first snowball fights of the season as a couple of snow people materialized in the middle of the playground area. Little and big kids added ornaments to a tree, while others ran around in merry chases and neighbors chatted.

Mother and daughters enjoy working on craft projects

Deborah Milkowski hands out gifts

There was a supply of 450 gifts sorted by ages and genders for Santa's visitors. "I already have fifty-three presents bought for next year," said Deborah Milkowski, the Council's gift maven for the Halloween and Holiday parties.

Raffle prizes which included tickets for a Bulls game and tickets for the Chicago Symphony holiday event generated income of about $550 which helped offset the $1,700 Advisory Council event expenditures. The Commercial Advisory Council holds various events throughout the year to raise money so they may give back to the community with free events such as the Halloween parade and the Holiday Party.

Check out the slide show for images of more people enjoying the party. Add a comment below and tell us if you were at the party. Here are some of the people who were there: Kimberly, Kyana and Kelly Aguilera, the Kenneths, Isabella and Joaquin Flores, Nick and Ryan Hanley, Georgia Burke and sons Liam and Declan.

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