(Michigan City, IN) - Santa and his friends will be collecting donations for The Salvation Army of Michigan City this weekend.

The annual “Red Kettle Take Over” is scheduled Saturday at U.S. 421 and U.S. 20 between 1 and 3 p.m. Volunteers will dress in Christmas-themed costumes, including Santa and Mrs. Claus, the Grinch, snowmen, elves, reindeer, and others.  These friends of Santa will collect cash and check donations in a final push for the Salvation Army and its annual Christmas fund raising campaign. The group enlists the help of local first responders including the Michigan City Fire Department, Michigan City Police Department, La Porte County Sheriff’s Office, and the Trail Creek Police Department.

The Salvation Army of Michigan City set a goal to raise $235,000 this season. The “Red Kettle Take Over” raised about $6,000 last year.

“This is a lot of fun because they have Christmas music and Christmas characters, and the people driving by always smile and wave when they see Santa,” said Major Dale Simmons.