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Over one thousand children and parents were invited to the annual holiday party at the Hamilton Downtown YMCA Saturday.

Every one of them went home with a toy Saturday, a ritual parents say has become part of their holiday traditions.

Today featured a meet-and-greet with Santa, and a chance to talk to members of Hamilton’s Emergency Services.

The YMCA was also offering a free four month family membership so kids can have safe place to go after school.

It includes free access to activities like swimming, basketball and soccer.

Today’s event was for members of City Kidz, Big Brothers, Big Sisters and several other organizations.