The scenery was different, but the outcome was the same during Santa Claus’ big arrival Saturday morning in Niles.

Weather forced the Four Flags Area Chamber of Commerce’s annual event to move from outside at the Riverfront Park to indoors at the Niles District Library — a change applauded by both families and chamber staff.

“I hope they have it inside every year,” said Melinda Spencer, of Niles. “It’s a lot warmer here. Last year it was awful outside — very cold.”

Spencer came with her 7-year-old grandson, Brandon Frazier, and Frazier’s mother, Brittany Ritchie.

They have witnessed Santa’s arrival at least three times before.

Frazier said he asked Santa for a lot of gifts, but the one he wants the most is a new cell phone.

“So I can play games on it,” he said.

Four-year-old Kierstyn Beerwart was first in line. Her family, including grandmother Ellen Vaughn, arrived at 10:15 a.m. — 45 minutes before Santa Claus rode in on a Niles Fire Department truck.

“I asked for a Monster High (doll),” Beerwart said.

Vaughn said it was their first time attending the event.

“I thought it was awesome,” she said. “It is great for the community and keeps them out of the cold. A great experience for the children.”

It was the chamber’s 31st year bringing the free event to Niles. Each child received a coloring book and a candy cane, while adults were treated to free donut holes, coffee and hot chocolate.

Chamber President/CEO Tyanna Weller thanked the library for hosting the event on short notice and said they would consider doing it inside in future years.

“I think it has worked out really well, especially with the icy conditions outside,” she said. “It is very nice having it here. We definitely would like to work with them (library) again. The library is such a great partner.”