Families and canine friends suited up on the evening of the last full moon of 2012 for the Gleason Family YMCA's first ever "Snowy Night, Bright Lights" run/walk on Friday, Dec. 28.

The snow wasn't present, but participants didn't mind as they joyously traveled around a path in the wood surrounding the Y, which was illuminated by Christmas lights and soft tea-light-sized laterns.

"We're happy that we've had a good turn-out," said Jo-Ann Watson, the Gleason Y's marketing and development director. More than 60 people participated.

Watson said the Y was looking for a fun, family-friendly, after-Christmas event to help raise funds for annual scholarships, which help pay for Y memberships and classes for community members who otherwise would be unable to afford them.

"We are especially happy when we are able to offer an event that involves the whole family participating together and doing something healthy like walking," said Gleason Family Y Executive Director Laura Prisco.

Participants could walk up to three miles, with raffles available for ambituous walkers who tacked on more miles.

Grace Morrison and Winthrop Dyer provided acoustic music around a bonfire that was central to the event. S'mores, hot chocolate, and coffee were available to warm participants off after the run/walk.

Wareham-based dog treat baker, Preppy Puppy, donated treats for the participating pooches, while many other local businesses donated raffle items and other goodies, said Melissa Dyer, one of the event's organizers.

Check out the gallery for more photos!