Fairgrounds Christmas Lighting marks 20th year

PLAINS – After only a few weeks of preparation, the fairgrounds turned into a winter wonder world, bedecked with glittering beams of light. 

On Sunday night the Sanders County Fairgrounds lit up with thousands of lights as the 20th annual Christmas Lighting Ceremony hit in full force.

The event started at 6 p.m. and those in attendance were able to indulge in free hot chocolate, chilidogs and cake - courtesy of NorthWestern Energy.

The fairgrounds pavilion was filled with family and friends who came together to celebrate the lighting. As an added bonus, a few vendors from the Holiday Bazaar that occurred over the weekend, stayed into the night to sell their crafts. Photography, homemade pens and baked goods could be seen as one made their way to the area full of food. 

The pavilion was packed full to standing room only.

According to Fair Manager Mike Hashisaki, over 250 hot dogs and three huge cakes were consumed. 

In all, Hashisaki said there was easily 250 to 300 people in attendance, a number similar to the attendance of last year. 

Originally, the lights were canceled for the year but after numerous anonymous donations and with money raised from the Community Market, they returned in full force. Hashisaki said he was approached several times with positive comments throughout the evening.

“I had quite a few people come up to me and talk to me about it. They were thankful (the lights) were on,” said Hashisaki. “All the feedback was positive.”

A little before 6:30, children began to line up in anticipation of Santa Claus’ arrival. Santa came a little late this year – but late is better than never. He appeared on a horse drawn carriage provided by Warren Wickum.

As he made his way to where he posted up for the night, the anxious kids waited, many filled with a mixture of nerves and excitement. One by one they approached Santa Claus and told him what they wanted for Christmas. Santa posed with the kids and handed them goodie bags courtesy of Dr. Ordelheide, the dentist in Plains.

While Santa completed his duties, others took to the grounds to explore the lights. The loop throughout the fairgrounds was decorated fully. 

At 7 p.m. a loud boom erupted into the air – the fireworks had begun. The display of lights burst above the lit up fairgrounds to the pleasure of many of the children. 

Once the event was capped off with the firework display, many people rushed to their cars to avoid the bitter cold that had crept in. 

The fairground lights will be on from dusk until 9 p.m. every night until the first of year. Santa Claus will also be present on Friday and Saturday night from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. until December 21st. 

The Plains VFW will donate candy canes for Santa Claus to hand out and the Plains Lions Club provides the jolly man himself. 

“This is a display best viewed as you drive through in your car with your lights off and wide-eyed children in your back seat,” states the Sanders County Fairgrounds website.