Great Bend City Coordinator Christina Hayes reports that Saturday’s Home for the Holidays event capped off Explore Great Bend Month, with 26 stores participating in the $1,000 Explore Great Bend Giveaway.

The giveaway was created by the retailers to help get people to shop local during the month of November, Hayes said, adding there are more chances to shop and win in December.

“Winners were picked after the parade Saturday and the $,1000 winner was Linda Shull from Great Bend,” Hayes said. The $500 winner was Brian Shull, also from Great Bend, and the $250 winner was Don Williams from Valley Center.

At one point Saturday, wind gusts exceeding 50 mph were reported.

“Despite the wind, The Home for the Holidays Festival and Parade was a great success!” she said. “During the day, the stores were buzzing because of the Cookie Contest. We sold out of the Cookie Contest boxes by noon, which has never happened.”

Sweet Dreams Candy Shop, 1917 Lakin Ave., won the annual cookie contest. Skylar Meeker, owner of the shop, baked and served Caramel Stuffed Snickerdoodle Cookies to earn the title this year.

The parade winners included: Grand Marshal’s Choice, St. John’s Catholic Church; Best Theme, The Center for Counseling; Youth, Cub Scout Pack 157; Civic Group or Club, Great Bend Saddle Club; Private, SRCA Car Club; Church, St. John’s Catholic Church.

“Special thanks to all the partners for making such a great Christmas event happen for our community!” Hayes said. She encourages people to shop local this holiday season. “Support our local businesses and explore the great items we have right here in town.” Shoppers can participate in the Hometown Rewards program this month. This event rewards people for shopping local and gives them a chance to win one of five $100 gift certificates.