COEUR d’ALENE — The magic of Christmas was tangible on Lake Coeur d’Alene on Tuesday night.

Children’s eyes were wide with excitement and wonder as they boarded Lake Coeur d’Alene Cruises with their families, where they were greeted by several of Santa’s elves and a warm, cozy ambience.

The cruise was complete with elves, Christmas music, a photo booth, seasonal drinks and other offerings.

Even a surprise appearance from The Grinch couldn’t dampen the Christmas spirit as the cruise made its way to the North Pole, about a 15-minute journey across the lake, which is illuminated by dazzling light displays on the water and even a fire-breathing dragon on The Boardwalk.

Excitement reached a fever pitch upon arrival at the North Pole, where kids eagerly awaited hearing their name read from the Nice List by Santa Claus himself. Kids squealed in delight as they heard their name called.

“So great!” said 5-year-old Juno as she jumped up and down in excitement.

“We are so excited to get into the holiday spirit and get on Santa’s Nice List!” said Kiana Tompke, who brought her 2-year-old son, Camden, along for the journey.

The reading of the Nice List concluded in celebratory fashion with fireworks and the lighting of the new illuminated floating Christmas tree, the largest of its kind.

Leaving the North Pole didn’t mean leaving the magic behind. The 250 light displays and millions of lights lining the North Pole and The Coeur d’Alene Resort made for beautiful views.

The 28th year of the North Pole Cruises are running nightly through the holidays. All depart nightly from The Boardwalk marina, with initial boarding at The Resort Plaza Shops. 

Info: www.cdacruises.com

    Santa Claus welcomes families and children to the North Pole from his deck Tuesday night.
  

    Alexis Culnane (left), Kiana Tompke (right) and Camden, 2, were all smiles watching the lights and fireworks over Lake Coeur d'Alene on Tuesday night.
  

    The North Pole's floating Christmas tree lit up the sky Tuesday night.