Youngsters in Riverbank can rejoice this weekend, since Santa has promised to make a special appearance in the downtown area to make up for the disappointment that bad weather brought to the area the weekend after Thanksgiving.

Area kids, along with their families, will have an opportunity to converse with St. Nick on Saturday, Dec. 21. That will be a quick stop here just before he has to dash off, back to the North Pole, to finish up in his workshop before delivering presents across the world on Christmas Eve.

According to the Riverbank Parks and Recreation Department, Santa Claus felt bad about not being able to be in the downtown parade that is regularly held the Saturday after Thanksgiving, because of the bad weather and winds that prompted cancellation of the event. They said he knows lots of area families were looking forward to seeing him in Plaza del Rio Park after the parade.

Luckily, the man in red was able to work his schedule out so he could come to town, and greet the youngsters from noon to 2 p.m. at the park on Saturday. It’s located at the corner of Third and Santa Fe streets, at 6702 Third Street.

Look for Santa Claus near the city’s decorated Christmas tree in the plaza. Families are encouraged to bring their cameras and take lots of pictures.

This time, Santa’s visit is scheduled, rain or shine.

For more information, contact the Parks and Recreation Office at 863-7150.