Merry and Bright: Platte County rings in the holidays

WHEATLAND – On Saturday, communities throughout the county celebrated the start of the Christmas season with downtown events throughout the day, as well as some new traditions.
In Wheatland, the annual Parade of Lights was held, with the finale at the Courthouse, where a lighting ceremony took place and Santa was handed the key to the city.
Platte County 4-H clubs organized winter games that were held downtown throughout the day.  The Platte County Art Guild held an ice sculpting contest downtown as well.

In Chugwater, the Community Center hosted a special reception, and there was a Christmas Parade in Downtown Glendo.
Festivities will continue throughout the month, and there is a special Christmas tree display at the Platte County Library, with trees that have been decorated by volunteers throughout the area.
Platte County Main Street is hosting a coloring contest for youth in the area, with pages placed on display at the local Shopko store.  Pages for the kids to color are available at Shopko or the Platte County Library.
The local Salvation Army is also carrying on its signature tradition of kettle bell ringers, who are posted outside businesses throughout the County to raise funds for local families in need.
Decorations that adorn the downtown area have been donated by volunteers or purchased with funds from the Town of Wheatland.  They are set up by volunteers.