Shreveport Firefighters Make Snow: Annual Smile Run at Shriners Children’s

Was that snow falling outside Shriners Children's Shreveport around lunchtime on Thursday, December 11th? Well, sort of! Santa Claus arrived to visit with so many wonderful children and families, and of course, he didn't just show up on a sleigh.

The Shreveport Firefighters pulled off some magic of their own, using their hoses to spray water into the air, creating a dazzling, snowy spectacle right outside the hospital!

The Heart of the Holidays: The Barney Cannon Smile Run

This spectacular arrival was all part of the "Barney Cannon Smile Run," an annual holiday tradition put on by Shreveport's very own Operation Santa Claus. This is one of the most anticipated events for the entire Operation Santa Claus team. This year, the excitement was even bigger as the Krewe Of Centaur sent their King and Queen to help Santa distribute toys, and of course, beads and candy to the children.

For over 41 years, Operation Santa Claus has been making Christmas morning happen for thousands of community members. The Shreveport Fire and Police Departments, along with Townsquare Media, prepared diligently for this 41st annual event, bringing joy and Christmas cheer directly to the children at Shriners Hospital.

Four Decades of Giving Back

Operation Santa Claus is a dedicated 501(c)(3) organization based right here in Shreveport, LA. Since its founding in 1984, local public safety agencies have teamed up with the former KWKH radio station, now part of Townsquare Media, to help fill Christmas wish lists throughout the area. For many of the recipients, the toys delivered through this program are the only gifts they will receive during the Christmas season.

The program, which started by helping 950 children in its first year, has grown considerably. Over the years, countless children have received Christmas presents, thanks to the heroic efforts of the Shreveport Fire Department, Shreveport Police Department, and generous people like you! Want to give? Just click here and donate now. 

Check out our gallery below for unforgettable photos of the firefighters' snow magic, the Krewe of Centaur, and the children meeting Santa!