Santa Claus is visiting neighborhoods in Castaic through Monday as part of a 20-plus-year-old tradition to spread holiday cheer while collecting food donations for local families.

Santa rides his sleigh through neighborhoods on a float (a flatbed truck), stopping along his route to hear children’s requests for Christmas presents and pose for pictures.

Organizers collect food donations at each stop and are also collecting used eyeglasses this year.

The tradition, in its 23rd year, is sponsored by the Castaic Lions Club and was initiated by Boy Scout Troop 583, evolving over the years.

The approximately 10,000 pounds of food collected are distributed to local families through churches, community organizations, schools and the senior center.

Tonight’s tour will take Santa through Hasley Hills west/Hasley Canyon. Sunday night’s will be in the Live Oak area, and Monday evening will culminate the event with a community night at It’s a Grind Coffee House, 29641 The Old Road in Castaic.

Float tours begin at 5:15 p.m. and continue until 9 p.m. each night.

Maps and more information are available at www.castaicsantafloat.com, but residents are urged to take their kids to see Santa when he arrives in their neighborhoods.