It’s not even December yet, but Santa Claus already is making his debut in Cranberry.

“I have a lot of houses to visit, but I always come to Cranberry first,” he told a cheering crowd in front of the Cranberry Township Municipal Center Friday evening.

Arriving on a fire truck decked out in Christmas lights, Santa greeted and high fived area residents before throwing a switch to light the Community Tree on the center's front lawn.

About 1,000 people attended the event, which was held the same night as Pittsburgh’s Light-Up Night.

The family-friendly event also included performances by the Dutilh United Methodist Church chorus, crafts, cookies and other activities.

Santa’s visit also launched the 2012 Cranberry Tree Gallery inside the municipal building.

For those who didn’t get to bump fists or share a hug with Santa, Old St. Nick will be back in Cranberry for the “Milk and Cookies with Santa” events on December 1, 8, and 9. 

Cranberry Patch was at Friday’s event to take photos of all the good little boys and girls. Check out our gallery and then share your photos by clicking the “Upload Photos and Video” button at the top of the article.