Fergus Oftelie (7), left, and sister Phoebe Oftelie giver their Christmas list to Santa Claus Thursday night at the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center’s Merry and Bright Night. Eric Johnson/photodesk@austindailyherald.com

Kids take in a Pallet Players presentation of “A Christmas Carol” during the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center’s Merry and Bright Night. Eric Johnson/photodesk@austindaliyherald.com

The Jay C. Hormel Nature Center is lit against the dimming horizon as people take part inside during the Merry and Bright NIght Thursday night. Eric Johnson/photodesk@austindailyherald.com

Susan Conway welcomes families to the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center cabin for a Christmas story during a past Merry and Bright Night. Herald file photo