EAST PROVIDENCE —  Santa Claus doesn’t always come to town on a sleigh. He usually makes his first visit to the city each year by boat, the Friends of Pomham Rocks Lighthouse "Lady Pomham II" in fact, as he did recently.

A blanket of fog and intermittent showers did not stop Santa from visiting Riverside November 18. The Lady Pomham II was decked with red and green garland and brought Pomham Santa and his elves to the shore of Sabin Point Waterfront Park to ring in the start of the holiday season.

Guests of all ages watched from the shore or dock and enjoyed hot cocoa and Munchkins, courtesy of Dunkin’, under cover of the park gazebo. Christmas ornaments were available for sale, including this year’s white satin glass ball ornament that features a colorful picture of the historical lighthouse, and a timeless Fresnel lens ornament, a replica of the iconic beacon which is housed in the Pomham Rocks Lighthouse museum.

For those unable to attend Santa’s visit, both ornaments can be ordered by calling or texting 401-742-2751 or sending an email to lighthouse1871@cox.net. Include your name, contact information and the ornaments requested. The cost is $20 each and can be paid in cash or by check, payable to Friends of Pomham Rocks Lighthouse. Orders in the East Providence/Barrington area will be delivered.

— East Providence Post and eastbayri.com contributing photographer Julie Furtado shot the accompanying gallery of photos.