Each year, the Christmas season in Great Bend shines brightly with its Trail of Lights holiday display. A drive along the trail might start at the south entrance to Brit Spaugh Park, taking viewers past animated displays and a light show set to music in front of the zoo. Then proceed to Veterans Memorial Park for “The 12 Days of Christmas.” See the Christmas Nativity at K-96 & 10th Street, then head south to the Historical Village lights.
Before you’re done, head back to the courthouse square to see the downtown and beautiful Mayor’s tree. On the north side of the courthouse there’s another light show set to music. Just tune to 106.3 on an FM radio.
The Trail of Lights will be lit into 2017, until it is taken down on Tuesday, Jan. 3.
Stray from the Trail of Lights and explore the rest of Great Bend. We found stunning displays all over town. Some displays, such as the huge collection of inflatable figures at the corner of Broadway and Madison, can be viewed in daylight as well.

Back on the trail
The Barton County Historical Village and Museum’s lights (and roofs) sustained major hail damage in 2015, but this year Maintenance Supervisor Brad Maddox and volunteers, including trusties from the Barton County Jail, got most of lights back up before the cold snap.
“Brad has done a remarkable job,” said Beverly Komarek, executive director of the museum. The buildings are outlined with simple white bulbs, defining the lines of the one-room school house, steepled church, barn and other structures.

Hoisington Homes
The Hoisington Chamber of Commerce sponsored a Home Christmas Lights Decor Contest. First place went to Jonathan and Lindsay Mitchell, 368 West 10th St.; second place, Steven Hindman, 768 West Third; and third place, 1401 N. Green.