After almost 40 years, Tim Cavender and his wife, Pam, continue to entertain local children as Santa and Mrs. Claus. With the Cavenders’ schedule booked through the holiday season, children will have plenty of chances to tell Santa what they want for Christmas.

“It’s been my best year yet,” Cavender said. “It’s been phenomenal — unreal — I’m booked every weekend from now until Christmas, most weekdays too.”

The jolly elf will be on hand today for a pancake breakfast at Fire Station 22, 9550 Bells Ferry Road, to benefit MUST Ministries. The event begins at 8:30 a.m. with Santa’s arrival at 9 a.m.

Later this evening, Santa will round out the city of Canton’s Christmas parade beginning at 6 p.m. He will also greet children in the Cannon Park gazebo from 2 to 5:30 p.m.

Sunday night, Santa will be at the Governor’s Mansion to help Gov. Nathan Deal light the Christmas tree. The event is open to the public and starts at 6:30 p.m. with the gates opening at 6 p.m.

On Friday, he and Mrs. Claus will make their official visit to the city of Ball Ground, beginning with a parade at 6:30 p.m.

Fire trucks, elves and floats of all kinds will escort them throughout the city and both Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available for photographs at the gazebo in downtown Ball Ground.

“Photos are absolutely free, so don’t forget to bring your camera,” Cavender said.

Hot chocolate and marshmallows will be provided by the Ball Ground Merchants Association and the Ball Ground Lions Club will give away free popcorn. The Ball Ground Historical Society will also sell their new 2013 calendar featuring vintage photos of the city.

For more information about the parade, contact Ball Ground City Hall at (770) 735-2123.

Just three years ago, Santa’s visit to Ball Ground received national attention when a 4-year-old girl asked Santa to bring her father home from his tour of duty in Afghanistan.

Santa was able to grant her wish, receiving national attention from CNN and other news networks.

Next Saturday, Santa will return to Canton for a Christmas concert featuring southern gospel trio Daily Bread at the Cherokee Arts Center at 8 p.m. Tickets are available at the door or by calling (404) 630-9212.