One of Turlock’s favorite holiday traditions is under way and will be coming soon to a neighborhood near you.

Turlock Fire Incorporated’s Santa Truck, which makes its way through the streets of Turlock each night in the weeks leading up to Christmas, has already begun its three-week journey through town, which will continue through Dec. 21.

The annual Santa Truck tradition began more than 40 years ago, according to retired firefighter Frank Saldivar, as a means to bridge the gap as the department transitioned from an all-volunteer fire department to one operated by the city.

These days, fire personnel contribute $15 a month to make sure the 1955 American LaFrance fire engine is in working order and can handle the rigors of its holiday tour.

Turlock Firefighters Local 2434 donate off-duty time aboard the vintage fire truck, helping Santa spread holiday cheer.

If you’re curious as to when Santa will be visiting your neighborhood, there are two ways to figure that out. The first is by listening for the unmistakable sound of the truck’s wind-up siren and the clanging of its bell. But, if you’re the type that likes to plan in advance, you can click on the following link to determine when St. Nick will be in your neighborhood: https://turlock.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=04ed26f528d24f609049e3343e759a7c

Typically, the Santa Truck heads out when it gets dark, around 5:30 to 6 p.m., and drives around for about two hours — depending on the weather. It’s important to note that because of road construction and the size of certain streets, the Santa Truck is unable to visit every street in Turlock.

Santa asks that everybody follow the rules: do not approach the engine while it’s in motion; do not chase or jump on the engine; do not throw objects at the engine; do not follow the engine in your vehicle.