MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- More than 50,000 sparkling lights illuminated Camp Pendleton’s night sky as the Holiday Toy Express Train made its fifth annual stop to deliver holiday spirit to families, at base’s Pacific Plaza, Dec. 18.

Hundreds of military family members were on hand to witness the 500-ton, decorated commuter train arrive with Santa and Mrs. Claus on board containing enough holiday cheer for all the boys and girls.

“This is a great event for the whole family,” said Lauren Grant, military spouse. “My children especially appreciated the visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus and the free prizes.”

Attendees enjoyed face painting, balloon animals, a moon bounce and complimentary treats from various vendors as they made their way through festive booths, before anxiously awaiting the arrival of the Holiday Toy Express Train. The children eagerly awaited Santa’s appearance and screamed with joy as he arrived and greeted everyone in the crowd.

“This is one of those events on base that you just shouldn’t miss,” said Jennifer “Butterfly” Pilcher, an entertainer from the event. “It truly gets everyone in the holiday spirit.”

In the spirit of giving, Metro Link presented a donation of $5,000 to the base’s Armed Services YMCA that was accepted by Colonel Nicholas F. Marano, commanding officer, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton.

The finale of Mr. and Mrs. Claus’ appearance came with a cannon shooting white confetti into the night sky, giving the children the gift of a white Christmas.

“Overall, the whole event really captured the Christmas spirit,” said Grant. “It truly gets better and better every year.”