SOUTH KINGSTOWN — No more calls please, Santa has arrived.

After a weeklong search, the Wakefield Village Merchants Association has found its Santa Claus to ride the trolley and lead the association’s annual holiday luminaria stroll next month.

Santa’s hearty “ho-ho-ho” will come from John Glasheen, a South Kingstown resident, according to Judith Ross-McNab, an event organizer.

Glasheen, 71, who was hired this week, brings those necessary skills that St. Nick should have: a jolly demeanor and a real beard.

He even sings.

“He called, sent an e-mail and was hired,” McNab said. “Total, I received around 65 calls and e-mails. The calls keep coming in. It has definitely been a fun experience.”

The stroll, featuring 2,000 candle luminarias, prancing elves, carolers, holiday-decorated streets and stores, and of course Santa on his trolley, takes place from 5 to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 11 on Main Street.

— Lisa Vernon-Sparks