FARMINGTON — Santa Claus is coming to downtown Farmington on Saturday —and once again, a Santa Loop of downtown shops will provide a variety of activities.

The Santa Loop takes place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. with rides in an old-fashioned, horse-drawn cart, starting and ending at Farmington Public Library. Santa’s helpers will assist with the rides.

At the library, children can write a letter to Santa, then ride down to The Homestead Kitchen, Bar and Bakery to see him. Children can have a photo taken with Santa, enjoy cookies and mail their letters to the North Pole. All letters with return addresses will receive replies.

At Upcountry Artists, children can make ornaments and gingerbread houses, and they can visit the Gingerbread Village at Twice Sold Tales.

Devaney, Doak & Garrett Booksellers will hold holiday readings from 10:30 to 11 a.m. Next door, Farmington House of Pizza will offer a slice of pizza for $1.

Children can make snowflakes at Richard’s Florist and enjoy a free munchkin at Dunkin’ Donuts, with a coupon available at the library.

At several shops, including Java Joe’s, Enchanted Herbs & Botanicals, Divine Inspirations and Tranten’s, participants can sign up for different raffles.  

Front Street Mercantile will offer free iced cookies and hot cocoa while supplies last.

Some shops, including Divine Inspirations on Front Street, are offering discounts on items in their shops.

The event is sponsored by the Farmington Downtown Association.