Some Birmingham children got a big surprise Thursday morning when Santa and his elves in blue spread Christmas cheer throughout the city.

Perched atop a red sleigh, with a police motorcycle escort, officers visited several communities in the two-day annual event.

They passed out toys and even bicycles to the unsuspecting kids.

“To be able to give a toy to a child that didn’t see it coming is just amazing,’’ said Birmingham Interim Police Chief Michael Pickett. “It’s the best the feeling in the world to be able to do that.”

The department’s Community Outreach and Public Education Division (COPE) led the effort with the donated toys.

The loaded sleigh left Birmingham police headquarters just after 10 a.m. Thursday and made it’s first stop at Park Place apartments in downtown. They continued on to other communities, including Collegeville, Inglenook and Magnolia Court apartments

Children, some still in their pajamas, rushed outside to see what all the fuss was about. Their confusion quickly turned to smiles.

Officers visited communities in the North and East precincts on Thursday and will head out again Friday to caravan through neighborhoods in the West and South precincts.

“It’s very touching,’’ Pickett said. “We know different families go through a lot of challenges in instances when it’s the worst moment of their lives and police are on the scene, so this is a great way for it to be a positive interaction.”

The chief said it’s also a morale boost for officers.

“Our officers love this,’’ Pickett said. “This is one of their favorite times of the year.”