Thousands of kids attend annual Calgary Firefighters Toy Association Christmas party

Around 2,000 children took part in the holiday festivities at the 58th annual Calgary Firefighters’ Toy Association Christmas party on Sunday.

Over 1,600 families are invited to enjoy activities at the party, such as face painting and making balloon animals, and to receive candy and gifts.

The Firefighters Toy Association was launched in the 1940s to help support underprivileged children.

Firefighters would repair old and used toys late into the night at the city’s fire halls, and continued when it became an annual Christmas party in 1967.

Now, it has also expanded to accommodate children with accessibility needs.

Anderson Silva Oliveria and his family moved to Calgary a few years ago. They were invited because his son has autism.

“It’s amazing to know like, there is some organizations that care about people who need more, like my son,” he told CityNews.

“It’s so accessible, even the sound is not that loud. Large entrances, volunteers working, giving guidance to people coming here.”

Calgary Fire Department assistant deputy chief Thomas Jukes says this event wouldn’t be possible without the community’s help.

“We’re giving out 4,000 gifts — takes a lot of donations of presents and monetary donations,” he said. “Without great partners and the support of Calgarians, we wouldn’t be able to run this event, and we’re very grateful for their generosity.”

A sentiment echoed by Mayor Jeromy Farkas, saying, “This is what Christmas in Calgary is all about, the community stepping up to support the community.”

At the end, the children had the chance to take a picture with Santa, or save their favourite activity — like diving into the ball pit — for last.