Giving thanks should not end the day after Thanksgiving. While some people go wild at Black Friday shopping riots, it’s good to remember that the holiday season has officially begun. That’s the time for goodwill to all.

If the fourth Thursday of November is Thanksgiving, what should follow? The National Calendar of Days suggests the day after Thanksgiving is Your Welcoming Day.

We’re looking forward to Great Bend’s Home for the Holidays parade and all of the related activities this Saturday. The Trail of Lights has been shining this week, but on Saturday evening the rest of the Courthouse Square lights will come on, including the Mayor’s Christmas Tree. After the parade at 5:30 p.m., stick around for some hot chocolate or watch kids skate on the artificial ice in the square.

Many of us do have Christmas presents to buy, and Black Friday always offers some specials. Small Business Saturday reminds us that when we “shop local” we are supporting our community and the business people who live here. 

Saying thanks with our pocketbooks is also an option on #GivingTuesday. Whether you shop locally or donate locally, your money supports people in your local community. But the spirit of the holidays goes beyond sharing our wealth.

We hope you find time this holiday season to be with family and friends, to enjoy good music – or theater or books or whatever you love – and to savor the wonder of being part of it all.