The Holiday Stroll in Wellesley and Church Squares on Sunday drew big crowds seeking to take in the season’s spirt and knock off those gift lists during this shorter-than-usual period between Thanksgiving and upcoming Christmas and Hanukkah.

“We’re getting our stocking stuffers,” said one familiar couple in unison, as I greeted them.

Store owners, like Wellesley Toy Shop’s Andy Brown, said the action had been non-stop, and that having Elmo pay a visit didn’t hurt.

Criss-crossing groups of carolers from Wellesley High kept things lively and musical at shops across the squares, and saved their best for the tree and menorah lightings at the fire station after dark. Frosty and Rudolph did the rounds, posing for photos and dancing up a storm during the grand finale.

Here’s sampling from the scene: