By Theresa Knapp 

Once again this year, the Upton Police escorted Santa Claus around town on Christmas Eve. 

This annual tradition dates back to the early 1990s and has been a long-standing part of the holiday season in Upton. 

“This tradition has always been about bringing joy and creating positive connections between the police department and the community,” said UPD Sgt. Matthew Rankins who grew up in town. “I remember Upton Police bringing Santa to my home when I was a child, and the excitement and happiness that came with that experience left a lasting impression on me. Being able to help carry on that same sense of magic for today’s children (and adults) is incredibly rewarding. Seeing the genuine joy when Santa arrives is something our officers truly look forward to every year.”

On Christmas Eve, between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., Santa and his sleigh (a decorated trailer towed by a police pickup truck) was seen with the UPD visiting several streets to spread holiday cheer, covering approximately 60 miles on the parade-style route. Rankins said the number of spectators “who wave from their homes, driveways, sidewalks, and vehicles easily reaches several hundred – and likely closer to 1,000 over the course of the day.” 

In advance of this annual tradition, the UPD posted Santa’s parade route on Facebook so residents could tell about what time Santa would be in their neighborhood. On Christmas Eve, there was a live tracking link so residents could track Santa’s whereabouts. 

Resident Erin Valcourt says Santa’s Christmas Eve tour is one of her family’s favorite traditions. Her family was waiting for the sound of the sirens and flashing lights announcing Santa’s approach. 

“It’s become something our kids truly look forward to,” said Valcourt. “We love following the tracker and waiting outside together. It’s one of the many traditions that makes Upton such a wonderful place to raise a family. We’re so thankful to the police and everyone who gives their time during the holidays to keep this tradition going for our community.” 

Rankins reports many of the police officers who started this tradition have since retired but the next generation of officers is proud to continue it. The event is run by volunteers and donations. Any remaining costs not covered by donations are supplemented by the Upton Police Association. 

“Department members and their families give their time on Christmas Eve and in the days leading up to prepare everything. We’re also very grateful for the continued support of community partners such as the Upton Fire Department, Hiway Recovery, and Rick Rankins Carpentry who help to make this event possible.

“It’s truly a community effort, and we look forward to continuing and improving the tradition for years to come,” said Rankins.

Again this year, Upton Police guided Santa’s sleigh around town on Christmas Eve. This annual tradition dates back to the 1990s. Photo source: Upton Police