It didn’t quite snow in South Florida in recent weeks, though the temperature plunged to record levels of cold.

But some children had a chance to experience what it would have been like if it had snowed, thanks to a 12-foot mountain of artificial snow provided at Miami Dade College North Campus’ annual “Children’s Holiday at North” held  Dec. 11.

The event also included live performances on three stages, including a Polynesian revue featuring Lilo and Stitch with hula fire dancers, Hip Hop Kidz, the South Florida Youth Symphony, belly dancers and the Miami Classic Ballet.

Kids got a chance to have their pictures taken with Santa Claus and drop their Christmas lists in his mailbox.

Santa and Mrs. Claus rode on a horse-drawn carriage in a parade featuring five marching bands and beloved children’s characters, such as Chuck e Cheese, Bearemy from Build-A-Bear, Billy the Marlin, Ronald McDonald and McGruff the Crime Dog. 

Other highlights included a Youth in Agriculture pavilion sponsored by the U.S. Department of Agriculture that featured wild animal shows, a petting zoo and games; an arts and crafts pavilion; and a holiday around the world pavilion showcasing customs and traditions in other countries.

“MDC’s North Campus takes pride in presenting the Children’s Holiday at North event to our community,” campus President José A. Vicente said in a statement.

 “Many families do not have the resources this holiday season to provide their children the magic of the holidays. This is a way for the college to give back to our community and, most importantly, plant the seed in children’s minds of the importance of attending college by visiting the college’s grounds and facilities and interacting with faculty and staff who volunteer their services that day.”

JAMES FORBES/FOR SOUTH FLORIDA TIMES. FUN IN THE SNOW: Children frolic on an artificial snow mountain during the annual “Children’s Holiday at North” hosted by Miami Dade College North Campus on Dec. 11.