Two of Santa's Reindeer make live guest appearance at the All Is Bright Christmas Kickoff

SIDNEY--The eagerly anticipated opening of the All is Bright Christmas Tour at the Cheyenne County Fairgrounds took place Saturday afternoon, December 30, 2024.

An enormous crowd had already assembled before the doors even opened to the pavilion which had been converted into a winter wonderland seemingly by magic. Adults and children alike were eager to see the real reindeer inside the facility.

More than one child noted that the animal pens adjacent to the doors had only seven wooden reindeer inside the individual stalls, and when they asked where the other two reindeer were, they jumped for joy when they were told "They're inside waiting for you!"

At 4 pm, the doors opened for the assembled crowd to start filtering inside. Cheyenne County Tourism Director Kendra Mitchell met the group and explained where to see the reindeer inside. Within minutes a long line of children and parents took their place and waited to see and pet the two reindeer, which were the stars of the All is Bright opening evening.

Mitchell said that the attendance for opening night was nearly double of last year's turnout. She spent many weekends with her volunteers creating the winter holiday masterpiece, and their effort was quite apparent. The pavilion had been turned into a twinkling winter display, with paths highlighting Old West-themed buildings and decor, a path through "Whoville", and, of course, Santa was there to find out what the children wanted for Christmas. Games and crafts were available, and a yet another crowd had gathered around Santa's letter-writing station.

All is Bright is open every weekend until December 23. Special events are planned for each weekend, so check their website at http://www.visitsidneyne.com, click on the "Events" tab, and scroll down to find out information on All is Bright. Santa is waiting for you and your family!