The locker room was filled with excitement as everyone absorbed the final words of the inspirational speech. One final "Who Dey" chant and everyone sprinted through the tunnel and onto the field at Paul Brown Stadium. While this could be the scene just before kickoff at any Bengals game, it was actually the setting for this year's Christmas Celebration.

For the first time Kicks For Kids hosted its annual Christmas party at Paul Brown Stadium. The event gives area children at risk the chance to experience Christmas in a way they never have before, and this has never been more true than this year! The magical evening began as soon as each child walked up the escalator and was greeted by their chaperone. These caring volunteers embraced each child as their own and helped make the night a special one. With the sound of carolers in the background the kids were in awe of the room filled with beautiful Christmas decorations and countless gifts. In sitting down to dinner with their chaperone, they had no idea what lie ahead for them later in the evening.

Giving kids a chance to experience the joys of the Holidays is what has made the KFK Christmas Celebration special for so many years. This year each child wrapped gifts that they would give their family, chosen from 'Santa's Workshop.' In addition, the kids had their face painted, and of course received gifts from Santa. However, the new venue also created many new opportunities for the event.

Each child found themselves standing in front of their very own locker at Paul Brown Stadium, marked by a personalized nameplate and filled with many exciting gifts including a Bengals coat, fleece, and football. The kids then got the chance to do what many Bengals fans can only dream of - play football on the field at Paul Brown Stadium. Some kids even gave their best Shayne Graham impression as their field goal attempt sailed through the uprights. Not only did the kids get to meet Doug Pelfrey, Jim Breech, and Shayne Graham, but several of their Bengals teammates also signed autographs for the kids and even Marvin Lewis stopped by to speak to the crowd.

You could see joy in the kids' eyes as they left the stadium at the end of the night! The event was a once in a lifetime opportunity for these children whose Christmas is now brighter. Thanks to all of our supporters who made this night possible. After all, this is what Christmas is all about.