Even though Christmas is still more than a month away, Santa Claus is making his way to Niles for an early appearance this weekend.

Jolly old Saint Nick is scheduled to meet children from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21, at the Niles District Library, which is located at 620 E. Main St., in Niles.

Elsa, from the popular Disney movie, “Frozen,” will also be at the library.

“We have all sorts of fun activities planned that entire family will enjoy,” said library employee Heather Williamson. “Plus everything is free and it will be warm inside.”

In addition to meeting Santa Claus and Elsa, children can also take part in several holiday-themed activities that will take place throughout the entire library, including making crafts, watching movies and enjoying refreshments.

Williamson said a local volunteer has agreed to bring her family’s large Thomas the Train collection for use by those in attendance.

The Miss Apple Festival Court will also stop by to read stories to children.

The library will open its doors at 10 a.m. and Santa is expected to arrive via Niles Fire Department fire engine before 11 a.m.

Families can line up to sit on Santa’s lap or begin taking part in the other activities. Williamson said organizers plan to take people in groups to meet Santa for those who don’t want to wait in a long line.

A photographer will capture pictures of the children meeting Santa and make the pictures available for download via the library website after the event.

Williamson said the pictures would be free.

Children will also receive a free coloring book.

This is the second year that Santa’s arrival has been at the library. The Four Flags Area Chamber of Commerce used to offer the event at the amphitheater in Riverfront Park in Niles.

Four Flags Area Chamber President Tyanna Weller said the chamber has given control of the event to the library.