Wednesday was “the best day of the year.”

That was the way Montrose County School District Superintendent Carrie Stephenson put it, as some 70 children crowded into a room at the clubhouse of The Bridges Golf and Country Club.

Bridges members personally bought gifts for the close-to-70 children at the event. Eric Feely, general manager of the Bridges, also praised the members of the Bridges. He said this local gift-giving event has been going on for around 10 years. (Justin Tubbs | Montrose Business Times)

The occasion: a visit from Santa Claus and the blessing of gifts for all the children.

For some 10 years, Bridges members have coordinated with the school district to put together their version of an Angel Tree.

Tristan Higgs, a student in Nicole Edder’s class at Northside Elementary carries gifts after sitting in Santa’s lap. The kids, all locals in the Montrose County School District, were treated to a lunch of chicken tenders and tater tots before meeting Santa one at a time and opening their gifts. (Justin Tubbs | Montrose Business Times)

Students received one gift of want and another of need. They’re also treated to a visit from Santa Claus (happy screams filled the room when he arrived with Mrs. Claus), with whom each of the students get a one-on-one visit. This year they were also treated to a lunch of chicken tenders and tater tots.

“This is an indescribable event,” Stephenson said. “The joy on the kids’ faces is incredible, and you have never seen kids more grateful for things they need.”

Darius Garcia talks Santa’s ear off on Wednesday while receiving his gift. Dr. Carrie Stephenson, Montrose County School District superintendent, was at the event and praised the efforts of the Bridges members.

Eric Feely, general manager at The Bridges, said each of the members who sponsor kids personally go out and buy the gifts for the children.

Students sat in Santa’s lap one at a time. Some kids were nervous, and others talked his ear off.