WASHINGTON PARK – Barbie and Tommy Alligood extend a Christmas open house invitation to Santa Claus every year. For the last 15 years, the jolly man in red has obliged.

Today, from 4 to 7 p.m., kids will line River Road to meet Santa on the Alligood’s front porch.

“He’s such a wonderful Santa,” Barbie said. “He’s so generous and giving. He takes his time with each child and listens to what they say they want.”

The Alligoods ask that people bring their own cameras for photos with Santa. They will provide a bag of candy and refreshments.

The Alligoods do not charge the kids or St. Nick for the use of their porch. They do ask that people consider bringing a canned good for Eagle’s Wings or pet food for J and J’s Homeless Pet Rescue.

“Our goal is to feed hungry people and hungry animals,” Barbie said.

Nancy Tingen, Santa’s top elf, pitched in with Barbie on last-minute decorations Thursday afternoon. She predicted 300 to 500 children would attend the Santa visit.

“I think it’s a great thing,” Tingen said of the Santa visit.

Tommy has worn his own red suit for more than 35 years. When requests started pouring in faster than he could fill them, the couple decided to have people come to them.

“It’s a lot of energy, effort and money,” Barbie said. “But God always blesses us.”

Santa will be at the Alligood home, 324 River Road, tonight from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.