The Holdrege Area Chamber of Commerce invites the public to celebrate the season at Winterfest, returning to downtown Holdrege on Friday, Dec. 13, (Courtesy)
HOLDREGE — The Holdrege Area Chamber of Commerce invites the public to celebrate the season at Winterfest, returning to downtown Holdrege on Friday, Dec. 13.
This full-day celebration brings families, neighbors, and visitors together for a lineup of free, family-friendly activities that highlight the best of the holiday season in Holdrege.
The day begins with community traditions hosted by local organizations, including the Holdrege Methodist Church Cookie Walk, YMCA Santa and Gingerbread House Decorating, the Lions Club Pancake Feed, YMCA Santa Sleigh 5K, and the Holdrege Optimist Club’s Reindeer Games.
In the afternoon, families can visit the Santa Experience at the Holdrege Sun Theater from 1 to 4 p.m. Sponsored by Adjacent Properties, this event features photos with Santa, a hands-on coloring contest with prizes from Dairy Queen, a creative Santa letter-writing station, and the official North Pole Mailbox.
At 5:30 p.m., the courthouse lawn comes to life during the Enchanted Winterland, sponsored by Phelps Memorial Health Center. The evening opens with the lighting ceremony, followed by caroling from the Holdrege High School Choir and special appearances by Mr. Winterfest and Santa. Visitors can walk through the lights, selfie stations, and even see real reindeer, thanks to Husker Irrigation.
From 6 to 9 p.m., downtown businesses welcome guests for the Jingle Mingle, sponsored by Farm Bureau Financial Services. This walking open house invites community members to explore festive stops along the parade route offering treats, hot drinks, balloon animals, face painters, Cindy Lou Who hair, seasonal specials, and much more. Patio heaters will be available to help guests stay warm as they walk and watch the parade of lights.
The celebration continues with the Parade of Lights, beginning at 7 p.m. The parade features a lineup of floats, tractors, decorated vehicles, walking groups, and local businesses showcasing their holiday spirit in Christmas lights. Registration is free, and early sign-ups are available to help streamline lineup at 6 p.m.
“Winterfest brings our community and visitors out of their cars, and together in a way that feels warm, joyful, and uniquely ours. It’s one of our favorite days of the year.”, said Adam Hernandez, Communications and Events Coordinator at the Holdrege Area Chamber of Commerce.
The full Winterfest schedule is available at HoldregeChamber.com/Winterfest
