Christmas Activities Kick Off Saturday

Downtown Christmas activities kick into high gear this weekend with activities in Hickory Square and the Post Commanders Home.

Sponsored by the Cheyenne County Chamber of Commerce and City of Sidney, Holidays in Hickory Square make the square headquarters for both the Christmas Kickoff and Parade of Lights.

Activities begin at 4 p.m. with a cakewalk, ugly sweater contest and s'mores and hot chocolate. The parade of lights, which runs from 14th and Illinois to Hickory Square, promises to again bring out the Christmas spirit for entries sharing their decorated rides for onlookers.

Also scheduled to make a visit is that Jolly Old Elf, with Santa Claus making an appearance in the parade, then staying around for pictures with children after the parade.

Parade watchers are invited to warm up after the parade in a heated tent, where chili, cinnamon rolls and a beverage will be available. Cost for those will be $5 for adults and $3 for children.

Nebraska's birthday celebration also continues that evening, with the Nebraska Sesquicentennial 1867 Christmas at Fort Sidney.

For the second time this season, the Fort Sidney Post Commander's Home will be hosting an open house, providing lamplight tours from 6-8 p.m. The tours provide the chance for people to see what the Commanders Home and Christmas on post were like in Sidney's early days.

Those missing the chance Saturday will still be able to take the tours, which will continue to be available from 1-4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 23.