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The Christmas spirit came alive in Half-Way Tree, St Andrew last week, brightening hearts and sparking joy for many Jamaicans despite the familiar refrain that they are "not seeing the Christmas" this year. Two delightful events - the Sanmerna Foundation's Christmas treat for children with disabilities and Bignall Law's dazzling tree-lighting ceremony - brought festive magic to the bustling area.

The celebrations began on Thursday with the Sanmerna Foundation's ninth annual Christmas treat at the Transport Centre, hosted in partnership with the Inspire to Empower a Change Foundation. The atmosphere was filled with laughter and excitement as children with disabilities enjoyed a day tailor-made for them. From playful games and dancing to a spirited competition led by clowns, every moment brimmed with joy.

A surprise visit from Santa Claus added an extra sprinkle of holiday magic as he posed for photos and joined in the merriment with the children.

Robert White, director of the Sanmerna Foundation, shared thart every year, the organisation takes Christmas to children with disabilities.

"Each year, we send a bus for them, bring them here, give them gifts, feed them, and let them enjoy themselves. We want them to feel like they don't have any challenges in life."

"These kids are very vulnerable. Anything you can do to put a smile on their face, just do it. These kids can grow up to be extraordinary individuals, even sitting in parliament. So let's do our part to make them feel included."

Anita Atkinson-Dean, co-founder of Inspire to Empower a Change Foundation, reflected on her personal connection to the cause.

"I grew up in a household with someone who was disabled," she shared. "The love and gratitude they show is unmatched. I'm appealing to everyone to extend a helping hand and show love to these children because they will show it back tenfold."

Co-founder Stephanie Joseph described the children as special and deserving of love and attention.

"People tend to overlook them, but they need love just like everyone else. We're here to ensure they feel that love and care," she said.

The festive cheer rolled into Friday evening with Bignall Law's annual Christmas tree-lighting ceremony, now in its second year. The event transformed the area into a spectacle of light and wonder, with a stunning Christmas tree radiating brilliance against the night sky.

Organiser Vaughn Bignall said, "I've always been fascinated with lights, especially during Christmas. This year, we're doing it bigger and better to bring people together and spread joy."

The glittering display drew a captivated crowd, with many expressing gratitude for the opportunity to experience the magic of the season amid rising living costs. For attendees like Demar Townsend, a father who brought his children, the event offered a much-needed dose of holiday cheer.

"I haven't put up anything at home all now because I have not gotten the chance since I have work," Townsend shared.

"My co-worker told me the tree lighting was today, and I brought my kids to see it, and they got so excited."