.jpg)
Smiles abound at annual Candlelight Christmas celebration
HARTINGTON — Hartington's Candlelight Christmas event Friday lit up the night and the faces of hundreds of area residents.
The weather, often times a factor in November events in Northeast Nebraska, turned out to be perfect with unseasonably mild temperatures and very little wind.
The night started with a new twist — a giant replica of the board game Candyland was painted on the street in the heart of downtown.
The game turned out to be a sweet success for all involved.
Father Owen Korte called out names and numbers as participants moved along the board to see who could cross the finish line first.
Hartington Chamber of Commerce President Ray Sukovaty said none of this would have been possible without the many volunteers that stepped up to help out.
'Downtown looks absolutely magical,' he said. 'Thank you to the many volunteers that put that to life. We are so grateful.'
Besides painting the street in candy- coated colors, store owners and volunteers also hung up several colorful lights and decorations, and NPPD hung Christmas decorations on the light poles.
Large plywood signs, painted by local students, were also strategically placed throughout the downtown area.
Christmas music wafted through downtown Hartington as area residents began to gather for the start of open houses and the beginning of the giant Candyland game and a visit from Santa.
Santa drew huge lines at the Senior Center as he and Mrs. Claus sat in easy chairs to talk with area children, hear their Christmas wishes and pose for photos.
The event also featured open houses in many downtown businesses.
Several food choices were also available as the Bank of Hartington held a special Christmas Open House and Customer Appreciation Day at the Globe Event Center.
Mama Mech and Papa Dean's food truck, Conrad's Kettle Korn truck and a donut truck were also on hand.
The KC Hall and Trinity Lutheran also held soup suppers.
