Saturday, December 5, 2009

Holiday Celebrations in Small Town America

I'd like to share with you some of the Holiday events that take place in the small town where Hubby and I live.


The local community college (which Hubby is currently attending) has an annual Trail of Trees event. The college is fairly new and has a very nice campus with an outdoor amphitheater, two (fish) stocked ponds and a nice walking trail around the ponds.

Upper Pond

Lower Pond


This area of the campus was hit quite hard by the tornado which came through our town this past April. Stumps of uprooted trees can be seen in this picture.

The walking trail is the location for the Trail of Trees event.

Community groups, families, or individuals may place and decorate a Christmas tree for a fee.


Most of the trees are ordinary every day Christmas trees, real or artificial, with the usual tinsel and ornaments. But a few are unique.


All the monies collected from this event go into a fund for students who need help in buying Christmas presents for their family. The students barter their time, which goes towards helping out around the campus, in exchange for funds.

The first Friday of every December there is an annual parade, lighting ceremony in the local park and a fireworks display.






And on occasion the Kansas City Southern Christmas train will bring Santa Claus into town.




It is all quite a treat and a wonderful way to ring in the Holiday Season.

8 comments:

Hope said...

DArnit, I iss home so much this time of year! Our annual outing to the square in Fayetteville to look at teh lights of the Ozarks was always a favourite, but that train...wow!

Debra She Who Seeks said...

Oooo, lovely! The Trail of Trees is an especially good idea. Gets people out and walking! Love that train too.

Zan Asha said...

Aww, I love the small town stuff. It's so comforting and familiar. Great lights and trees!

Rue said...

I love all kinds of holiday activities! The trail of trees is a nice idea - and the ponds look lovely!

Leslie said...

Wow, the park is beautiful and the trees look so fun and unique. A great way to bring community together! Happy Holidays! Stop by my blog, I have something for you!

JoyceAnn said...

Trail of Trees , that's a great idea. I love living in a small community , there may not be much happening , but our few events are very special.
The Grands will be staying with me tomorrow afternoon , I'll have to show the boys your pictures of this train. I know they'll love it.

~ Holiday Blessings ~

Dede said...

The trail of trees is a great idea. But I have to say, that train is something else, I love it!

(((HUGS)))

Bridgett said...

I'm so jealous of your excellent pictures. We went to a light show at a local city park last weekend and they just didn't turn out very well. Most were blurry. Boo.

These were wonderful though!

)O(
boo