While it didn’t feel like the holiday season outside, it was Christmas morning Wednesday at the Cahaba Center for Mental Health and Mental Retardation.

With a choir belting out their favorite holiday songs, lights popping to life on the center’s Christmas and a visit from Santa Claus himself had executive director Lafon Barlow feeling like it was another successful kickoff to the holiday season.

“We want people in the community to come by and be around people with special needs, and see what we are capable of,” Barlow said.

Selma Mayor George Evans was on hand Wednesday to light the center’s Christmas tree; something he has done for several years and said the chance to be on hand for the event is worth rescheduling other commitments.

“It’s always important to be out here with this family,” Evans said. “Everybody out here wants to play such a big role in the Christmas process, and we come out here every year to share in that joy with them.”

Evans said the work done year-round at the center is a big reason he returns year after year.

“They have a program here that is one of the best programs in the state and my being here let’s them know they are not being left out,” Evans said. “I’m excited to be here and be part of their big day. It’s truly awesome.”

Floyd Sanders, day programs coordinator at the Cahaba Center, spent much of the morning showing off the center’s Christmas Village, which is comprised of extremely detailed ceramic buildings made by students and volunteers at the facility, and said they all enjoy the chance to display their works for people who haven’t seen it before.

“It’s indescribable for them,” Sanders said. “This really marks the start of their Christmas season for them. They are loving this chance to show off their talents as performers in the choir or their skills in painting with the Christmas Village. Today really is our gift to the community.”

A front room of the center was full of ceramic piece which can be purchased, and Barlow said the money goes to a good cause.

“The money raised from these ceramics goes right back into buying the materials they need to keep the ceramics program going,” Barlow said ”And Mr. Sanders has more need for supplies than we have had in the past because we are doing it with more people.”

Barlow said the look of joy on the faces of all of the clients at the center is a reason she has looked forward to the event every year.

“It just love seeing the joy on their faces,” Barlow said. “It’s like they’ve never lost the joy of Christmas. It’s so special to them.”