Children at Hackensack University Medical Center celebrated their first snowfall this winter just in time for Christmas.

Snow Magic Inc. created the artificial snow in the hospital’s outdoor garden. It took two hours to make 10 tons of snow and required 17,000 pounds of ice.

Hospital staff say they are happy that they can offer this special treat to their patients.

Obviously the opportunity to be out and up to play in the snow and everything is a great opportunity for the kids,” Stephen Percy, interim chairman of the pediatrics department. “They get to play, and be kids. Forget why they're here in the hospital, particularly around Christmas time and so it's just a chance to be a kid again."

The children go to snack on holiday treats and play with their friends in the snow.