‘Small-town Christmas’ spirit takes over Ridgeway

Ernie Pigden has witnessed the ever-changing trends in what kids want for Christmas.

That’s because he’s been playing Santa Claus in Fort Erie for the last 35 years, serving as the star of the annual parade, and at many other events, such as last week’s Frosty the Christmas Horse fundraiser at The Plaice Restaurant.

He was also busy on Friday night at Boggio and Edwards Ridgeway IDA Pharmacy taking photos with excited children during the annual Christmas on the Ridge celebration in downtown Ridgeway.

In an interview with Fort Erie Radio between photo ops, Pigden said there is one rule he has to explain to kids when they’re on his lap, which is that Santa doesn’t bring expensive electronic devices as gifts.

“That’s something Mom and Dad take care of,” he said.

Pigden, also known as Santa, said the classic teddy bear has declined in popularity, but that “stuffies” of characters from popular cartoons and movies are very much a hot commodity.

There are many other “old standbys” like Lego that kids want, said Pigden, as his natural white beard was lit by the lights coming through the window.

He’s also not bothered when kids have a meltdown during their visit with him.

“I don’t mind the odd tears. It happens,” said Pigden, admitting it can be a “stressful situation.”

The annual celebration, also known as the Spirit of Christmas, has been going on for more than 20 years.

Donnie Edwards, from Boggio and Edwards Ridgeway IDA, said they took over the pharmacy 16 years ago, carrying on the photos with Santa tradition started by the previous owners.

He’s been told by multiple people that three generations of their family have captured Christmas memories with Santa at the local business on Ridge Road.

His staff enjoy bringing in St. Nick every year, and even though his appearance was scheduled until 8 p.m. on Friday, it’s okay if things run a bit late.

“We just keep going until nobody wants pictures,” said Edwards.

Donations of non-perishable food items for the Crystal Ridge Dream Center were accepted in exchange for Santa photos.

To kick off the evening, a tree-lighting ceremony was held at the village square. There were caroling performances by students from St. George and St. Philomena Catholic schools, as well as John Brant Public School.

“That helps because it brings a lot of families down,” said Edwards when asked about how the event seems to grow in popularity each year.

“It really feels like a small-town Christmas,” he said.

At the Royal LePage real estate office, Milos Krtek and other volunteers were handing out hot chocolate.

He said theirs was the “sweetest” option available along the street.

“We pride ourselves in putting a little extra cocoa in there,” said Krtek.

He said the event is an annual tradition he remembers taking part in as a kid, and commended the Ridgeway BIA for its efforts in putting everything together.

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