SANTA Claus took a break from his frantic festive preparations on Saturday to be the star attraction at the Christmas Market and Pet Adoption Drive at the Geelong Conference Centre.

More than 200 people came to the market, and more than 30 kids were excited to see Santa when he turned up with the Geelong Fire Brigade.

The event, hosted by Piccadilly Markets, featured stalls from eight local makers, along with a wreath-making workshop by Wild Saffron Florist.

Pets Haven were able to find forever homes for all eight dogs on the day, with people queuing for up to three hours before the scheduled 11am start for the chance to adopt a pup.