Oct 16, 2025
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Bob's Christmas Car Day
Held each December, Bob’s Christmas Car Day is a heartwarming event in Batavia, NY, celebrating the legacy of “Bob the Holiday Man” Zeagler. This event, organized by Little Free Pantry Batavia, brings holiday joy to hundreds of local children and families. Last year, over 600 kids visited Santa, each leaving with toys from Santa’s workshop. Families also received holiday essentials like food, decorations, jackets, clothing, and household items.
The event is more than a Christmas celebration—it’s a chance for the community to come together and support each other. With festive characters like the Ghostbusters, Princess Barbie, and local Boy Scouts serving hot cocoa and treats, Bob’s Christmas Car Day has become a cherished tradition. The day provides much-needed resources to families and ensures every child has a magical Christmas experience, especially those who might struggle to afford holiday extras.
For updates, visit our Little Free Pantry Batavia Facebook page and follow along as we prepare for this year’s event!
Bob zeagler was more than just a name; he was a living embodiment of holiday cheer and goodwill. Born with an indomitable spirit and an unwavering commitment to spreading joy, Bob became a beloved figure in Batavia and the surrounding Western New york area, and beyond .
Born and raised in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, Bob Zeagler's journey led him to Batavia, where he would leave an enduring mark. In 1966, he moved to Elba, New York, where he met the love of his life, Bridget Jasinski. The two would marry in 1968 and embark on a journey filled with love, laughter, and a whole lot of holiday spirit. Bridget joins us every year at Bob’s Christmas Car day!
Bob's transformation into "The Holiday Man" began many years ago during a trip to Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, around Halloween. A simple plastic pumpkin atop their luggage sparked an idea that would forever change his life and bring joy to countless others. People couldn't help but smile and be delighted by his creative holiday-themed costumes and decorations
For Bob, every day was a celebration of one holiday or another. From Valentine's Day to St. Patrick's Day, Easter to Halloween, and all the way to Christmas, His dedication to meticulously crafting costumes and decorations filled his home and community with holiday magic.
Bob's iconic black Jeep, adorned with plywood boards and plastic figures representing each holiday, became a Batavia landmark. It wasn't just about the decorations; it was about the infectious joy that radiated from his festive vehicle. The Jeep brought smiles to faces young and old and reminded everyone that kindness and cheer could brighten any day.
Bob Zeagler reminds us that a simple act of kindness, a warm smile, and the power to make someone smile never goes out of season. His legacy continues to light up the hearts of the Batavia community and serves as a reminder that the true magic of the holidays lies in the joy we share with others.
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