PARIS, TX-- An entire community celebrated,Saturday, with a Christmas party that drew thousands of area residents, most of them who walked.

Outside the First United Methodist Church, trucks full of toys, groceries, and Christmas treats were passed out.

Organizers say it wasn't a charity but instead a giving event, where participants were encouraged to give as well as receive.

Everyone who came was encouraged to bring something to donate, but all were welcome even if they didn't bring a thing.

Michael Wood thought of the idea three years ago when his family was getting ready to move out of their home. He wanted to donate some of his household items and began planning an event with his church.

"The idea is to let go" Wood said, "To challenge yourself to get something from the house, not something not just that you would give away at a garage sale, but something that you don't really want to part with but you can challenge yourself to let go of."

In its first year, around five-hundred participants stopped by the church. This year, they were prepared for thousands.

Bicycles, televisions, even a church organ were items up for grabs. Everyone who came to the event received four tickets that could be exchanged for an item of their choice. There was also chili, cookies and hot chocolate provided free of charge.