UPDATE: Great Bend is gearing up for its highly anticipated 20th annual Home for the Holidays Festival, happening on November 29. With just one week left, excitement is building around this festive celebration filled with community activities and holiday cheer.
During a recent Great Bend City Council meeting, Public Relations Director Addison Crites revealed the packed schedule. “It’s going to be another jam-packed day with Small Business Saturday, Rosewood hosting their Cookie Contest, Dilly and Docs’ pop-up market, and the Christmas Craft Mall,” Crites stated.
The festivities kick off in the morning with the Golden Belt Model Railroad open for train enthusiasts. At 5:30 PM, the parade will commence, featuring close to 40 entries under this year’s theme, Holiday Movie Madness. This vibrant parade will be followed by the lighting of the Mayor’s Christmas Tree, where attendees can enjoy free hot dogs and hot chocolate provided by Mark Bitter.
Families can also look forward to free carriage rides, wagon rides, and Dolly Trolley rides courtesy of Rosewood. The City of Great Bend will offer train rides, while the Busy Buzzer 4-H Club presents a Christmas Petting Zoo. Additionally, an artificial ice skating rink will be available with free skate rentals, and visitors can drive through the enchanting Trail of Lights.
As of now, volunteers are urgently needed for the Trail of Lights greeter booth at the entrance to Brit Spaugh Park, with openings available on December 7, 9, and 16. Shifts run from 6 PM to 8 PM, where volunteers will distribute candy canes and greeter bags. Crites expressed gratitude towards Marissa Woodmansee and the Youth Crew for preparing approximately 1,000 greeter bags this week.
Adding to the festive spirit, attendees can light a luminary in honor of a beloved pet during the Pawsitive Luminaries event on Saturday from 5 PM to 8 PM in Jack Kilby Square. A minimum donation of $5 allows participants to honor their furry friends, with proceeds benefiting Pawn and Claws/Adopt A Pet. For more information, contact Cathy Vonfeldt at 620-639-6921.
Mark your calendars and join the Great Bend community for this festive celebration that promises joy, fun, and holiday spirit for all ages!
