Step into history after
dark at the Santa Fe Trail Center for “Night At The Museum,” from 7 until 9
p.m. on Saturday January 3rd. The event will feature the Pawnee
Peppers and Western Wranglers 4-H Clubs as they bring historical characters to
life as a fundraiser for the Trail Center.&nbsp;
Guided tours will be given every 15 minutes.&nbsp; Admission is by free will donation, but RSVPs
are required. Call 620-285-2054 to reserve your spot.&nbsp; The Santa Fe Trail Center is two miles west of Larned on Highway
156.&nbsp;

Step into history after
dark at the Santa Fe Trail Center for “Night At The Museum,” from 7 until 9
p.m. on Saturday January 3rd. The event will feature the Pawnee
Peppers and Western Wranglers 4-H Clubs as they bring historical characters to
life as a fundraiser for the Trail Center.&nbsp;
Guided tours will be given every 15 minutes.&nbsp; Admission is by free will donation, but RSVPs
are required. Call 620-285-2054 to reserve your spot.&nbsp; The Santa Fe Trail Center is two miles west of Larned on Highway
156.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765379077291.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Night At The Museum  January 3rd 

Bundle up and bring the whole family to the Kansas
Wetlands Education Center from 1 until 4 p.m. Friday December 26th for
“Winter Wonders Of The Wetlands”&nbsp;drop-In event. Enjoy an afternoon of
frosty fun and hands-on discovery as you learn how animals survive and thrive
in the Kansas wetlands during the coldest months of the year. Admission is free
for all ages and registration is not required. To find out more, call
877-243-926.. The Kansas Wetlands Education Center is on Highway 156 between
Great Bend and Claflin.&nbsp;

Bundle up and bring the whole family to the Kansas
Wetlands Education Center from 1 until 4 p.m. Friday December 26th for
“Winter Wonders Of The Wetlands”&nbsp;drop-In event. Enjoy an afternoon of
frosty fun and hands-on discovery as you learn how animals survive and thrive
in the Kansas wetlands during the coldest months of the year. Admission is free
for all ages and registration is not required. To find out more, call
877-243-926.. The Kansas Wetlands Education Center is on Highway 156 between
Great Bend and Claflin.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765236809904.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Winter Wonders Of The Wetlands  December 26th

Visit the Santa Fe Trail Center west of Larned during “Christmas
On The Prairie,” December 13th through the 24th.&nbsp; The event is a cozy, Victorian parlour
experience with festive photo ops, scavenger hunts, wassail, daily read-alouds,
and a different hands-on activity every day.&nbsp; It’s the perfect way to make
memories, slow down, and enjoy the season.&nbsp;
Admission is free for Trail Center members and $5 for non members which
(includes all activities and museum access. The Santa Fe Trail Center is two miles west of Larned on Highway
156.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Visit the Santa Fe Trail Center west of Larned during “Christmas
On The Prairie,” December 13th through the 24th.&nbsp; The event is a cozy, Victorian parlour
experience with festive photo ops, scavenger hunts, wassail, daily read-alouds,
and a different hands-on activity every day.&nbsp; It’s the perfect way to make
memories, slow down, and enjoy the season.&nbsp;
Admission is free for Trail Center members and $5 for non members which
(includes all activities and museum access. The Santa Fe Trail Center is two miles west of Larned on Highway
156.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765201121644.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Christmas On The Prairie  December 13th through the 24th

You can help bring Christmas magic to CASA* kids
by making a donation during the CASA Holiday Drive through December 21st.&nbsp; Items being accepted are toys, blankets,
books, hats, gloves, socks, activity books, stuffed animals and hygiene items.&nbsp; Cash gifts are also accepted.&nbsp; Gifts will earn donors tickets for a huge
prize drawing on December 19th.&nbsp;
You can drop off donations at KanEquip, 214 Southwest 40th
Avenue, west of Great Bend. *(Court Appointed Special Advocate.)

You can help bring Christmas magic to CASA* kids
by making a donation during the CASA Holiday Drive through December 21st.&nbsp; Items being accepted are toys, blankets,
books, hats, gloves, socks, activity books, stuffed animals and hygiene items.&nbsp; Cash gifts are also accepted.&nbsp; Gifts will earn donors tickets for a huge
prize drawing on December 19th.&nbsp;
You can drop off donations at KanEquip, 214 Southwest 40th
Avenue, west of Great Bend. *(Court Appointed Special Advocate.)<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764948217168.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Casa Holiday Drive  Through December 21st 

If you’ve got a naughty or nice person on your Christmas
gift list that’s hard to buy for, then consider sending them a Grinch
Gram.&nbsp; Grinch Grams spread chaos but
support Barton County nurses and CMAs at the same time.&nbsp; Cost is $20 per gram.&nbsp; Visit the nursesfirstbartoncounty Facebook
Page and comment “Grinch Me.”&nbsp; Grinch
Grams are &nbsp;sponsored by the non-profit
Nurses First Foundation.

If you’ve got a naughty or nice person on your Christmas
gift list that’s hard to buy for, then consider sending them a Grinch
Gram.&nbsp; Grinch Grams spread chaos but
support Barton County nurses and CMAs at the same time.&nbsp; Cost is $20 per gram.&nbsp; Visit the nursesfirstbartoncounty Facebook
Page and comment “Grinch Me.”&nbsp; Grinch
Grams are &nbsp;sponsored by the non-profit
Nurses First Foundation.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764944599280.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Grinch Grams  Christmas 2025

You can give the gift of life during
the next American Red Cross blood drive from noon until 6 p.m., Monday December
29th at the Claflin Community Center, 409 A-Street in Claflin. To
save time, donors are encouraged to set an appointment using “RapidPass"
to complete the pre-screening process online. Walk-ins will still be accepted
and all blood types are needed, especially Type-O.&nbsp; Visit redcrossblood.org/rapidpass
to make an appointment.

You can give the gift of life during
the next American Red Cross blood drive from noon until 6 p.m., Monday December
29th at the Claflin Community Center, 409 A-Street in Claflin. To
save time, donors are encouraged to set an appointment using “RapidPass"
to complete the pre-screening process online. Walk-ins will still be accepted
and all blood types are needed, especially Type-O.&nbsp; Visit redcrossblood.org/rapidpass
to make an appointment.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765218366142.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Red Cross Blood Drive  December 29th 

Make memories with your family at Great Bend’s synthetic ice-skating
rink during the holiday season.&nbsp; You’ll find the rink in downtown Great
Bend directly north of the band shell at Jack Kilby Square.&nbsp; If you don’t
have your own skates you can rent a pair for free.&nbsp; Skate rental is
available Thursdays and Fridays from 4 until 8 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays
from 1 until 6 p.m.&nbsp; The rink is also open Monday through Wednesday, but
you’ll need to bring your own skates.

Make memories with your family at Great Bend’s synthetic ice-skating
rink during the holiday season.&nbsp; You’ll find the rink in downtown Great
Bend directly north of the band shell at Jack Kilby Square.&nbsp; If you don’t
have your own skates you can rent a pair for free.&nbsp; Skate rental is
available Thursdays and Fridays from 4 until 8 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays
from 1 until 6 p.m.&nbsp; The rink is also open Monday through Wednesday, but
you’ll need to bring your own skates.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764625545761.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Free Ice Skating  Through December 21st

ElderCare in Great Bend is celebrating the Christmas
season by extending its holiday giving program so that seniors can benefit
throughout the year. The Year-Round Senior Collection program is currently accepting
donations from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday through December 17th
at the Great Bend Senior Center, 2005 Kansas Avenue.&nbsp; Needed items include towels; toilet paper; cleaning
supplies; laundry detergent; toiletries and gift cards for grocery stores and
restaurants.&nbsp; Monetary donations are also
accepted. To find out how you can help, contact Brandi Gruber, ElderCare
executive director at <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=eldercare+great+bend+ks&amp;sca_esv=d6f214ffcf398723&amp;sxsrf=AE3TifMMZ3XMo1a8Ui-uE8wV3YH9m4O80Q%3A1764443564879&amp;source=hp&amp;ei=rEUrabGpM5-7qtsPwJffkAI&amp;iflsig=AOw8s4IAAAAAaStTvExMs69ltnl3myjD_8ioQNWpCpht&amp;ved=0ahUKEwixr6K_iJiRAxWfnWoFHcDLFyIQ4dUDCBo&amp;uact=5&amp;oq=eldercare+great+bend+ks&amp;gs_lp=Egdnd3Mtd2l6IhdlbGRlcmNhcmUgZ3JlYXQgYmVuZCBrczIEECMYJzILEC4YgAQYxwEYrwEyAhAmMgUQABjvBTIFEAAY7wUyBRAAGO8FMggQABiiBBiJBUijQ1AAWNM9cAB4AJABAJgBiwGgAYYRqgEEMTYuN7gBA8gBAPgBAZgCF6AClBPCAhAQLhiABBhDGMcBGIoFGK8BwgILEAAYgAQYkQIYigXCAhEQLhiABBixAxjRAxiDARjHAcICCxAuGIAEGLEDGIMBwgIUEC4YgAQYsQMY0QMYxwEYigUYjQbCAggQLhiABBixA8ICCxAAGIAEGLEDGIMBwgIKEC4YgAQYQxiKBcICChAAGIAEGEMYigXCAgsQLhiABBiRAhiKBcICFhAuGIAEGEMYxwEYmAUYmQUYigUYrwHCAg4QABiABBiRAhixAxiKBcICBRAAGIAEwgIKEAAYgAQYFBiHAsICCBAAGIAEGLEDwgIGEAAYFhgewgILEAAYgAQYhgMYigXCAggQABiABBiiBJgDAJIHBDcuMTagB9a6ArIHBDcuMTa4B5QTwgcJMi0xMi4xMC4xyAfXAQ&amp;sclient=gws-wiz">(620)
792-5942</a>.

ElderCare in Great Bend is celebrating the Christmas
season by extending its holiday giving program so that seniors can benefit
throughout the year. The Year-Round Senior Collection program is currently accepting
donations from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday through December 17th
at the Great Bend Senior Center, 2005 Kansas Avenue.&nbsp; Needed items include towels; toilet paper; cleaning
supplies; laundry detergent; toiletries and gift cards for grocery stores and
restaurants.&nbsp; Monetary donations are also
accepted. To find out how you can help, contact Brandi Gruber, ElderCare
executive director at <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=eldercare+great+bend+ks&amp;sca_esv=d6f214ffcf398723&amp;sxsrf=AE3TifMMZ3XMo1a8Ui-uE8wV3YH9m4O80Q%3A1764443564879&amp;source=hp&amp;ei=rEUrabGpM5-7qtsPwJffkAI&amp;iflsig=AOw8s4IAAAAAaStTvExMs69ltnl3myjD_8ioQNWpCpht&amp;ved=0ahUKEwixr6K_iJiRAxWfnWoFHcDLFyIQ4dUDCBo&amp;uact=5&amp;oq=eldercare+great+bend+ks&amp;gs_lp=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&amp;sclient=gws-wiz">(620)
792-5942</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764443804252.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Eldercare Giving Program  Through December 17th 

Discover how
other countries celebrate Christmas by visiting Santa World, at 1223 Main in
downtown Great Bend.&nbsp; Twenty-four life-size Santa figures are currently on
display depicting Christmas customs and traditions from around the world.&nbsp;
Santa World is open from 4 until 6 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays, and 1 until 6
p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays through December 22nd. &nbsp;Santas
Around The World is located on the southwest corner of Lakin and Main in
downtown Great Bend.&nbsp; Admission is free but donations are always
appreciated.

Discover how
other countries celebrate Christmas by visiting Santa World, at 1223 Main in
downtown Great Bend.&nbsp; Twenty-four life-size Santa figures are currently on
display depicting Christmas customs and traditions from around the world.&nbsp;
Santa World is open from 4 until 6 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays, and 1 until 6
p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays through December 22nd. &nbsp;Santas
Around The World is located on the southwest corner of Lakin and Main in
downtown Great Bend.&nbsp; Admission is free but donations are always
appreciated.

Santas Around The World   Through December 21st 

Auditions for the next
Great Bend Community Theater production will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday January
11th and again at 7 p.m., Monday January 12th at the Crest Theater
in downtown Great Bend.&nbsp; The next play, “Happy Birthday Dear Grandpa,” is a
comedy about a cantankekrous grandfather who thinks his grandkids are trying to
kill him for their inheritance.&nbsp; But when
grandpa unexpectedly dies at his birthday party, the kids suddenly become
murder suspects. The play will be presented February 26th through March
1st. No advance preparation is necessary for the auditions. To find
out more, visit the Community Theater’s Facebook Page.

Auditions for the next
Great Bend Community Theater production will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday January
11th and again at 7 p.m., Monday January 12th at the Crest Theater
in downtown Great Bend.&nbsp; The next play, “Happy Birthday Dear Grandpa,” is a
comedy about a cantankekrous grandfather who thinks his grandkids are trying to
kill him for their inheritance.&nbsp; But when
grandpa unexpectedly dies at his birthday party, the kids suddenly become
murder suspects. The play will be presented February 26th through March
1st. No advance preparation is necessary for the auditions. To find
out more, visit the Community Theater’s Facebook Page.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764087884870.jpeg" alt="K.jpg" />
 <figcaption>K.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>

Community Theater Auditions  January 11th and 12th 

The Great Bend High School A Cappella
Choir invites you to its 89th annual Vespers Concert at 2 p.m.,
Sunday December 15th at the high school auditorium, 2027 Morton in
Great Bend.&nbsp; Vocal music instructor Susan
Stambaugh will direct a select group of juniors and seniors as they perform a
collection of songs for the Christmas season. The youth choir concert will
follow at 3:30 p.m. Then at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, December 15th, join
the Great Bend High School Concert Choir and Madrigal Pop Singers for their
annual Christmas concert.&nbsp; All concerts are
free and open to the public.

The Great Bend High School A Cappella
Choir invites you to its 89th annual Vespers Concert at 2 p.m.,
Sunday December 15th at the high school auditorium, 2027 Morton in
Great Bend.&nbsp; Vocal music instructor Susan
Stambaugh will direct a select group of juniors and seniors as they perform a
collection of songs for the Christmas season. The youth choir concert will
follow at 3:30 p.m. Then at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, December 15th, join
the Great Bend High School Concert Choir and Madrigal Pop Singers for their
annual Christmas concert.&nbsp; All concerts are
free and open to the public.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764087032791.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Vespers Vocal Music Concert    December 14th 

Visit the Barton
County Historical Society and Museum on Sunday December 14th&nbsp;from 1 until
5 p.m. for its Annual Ghosts of Christmas Past exhibit. Admission is free and
coffee, punch and cookies will be available. Santa will take time away from his
busy schedule at the North Pole to pose for photos.&nbsp; During the open
house, the Historical Society's beautiful collection of Christmas trees and
holiday themed exhibits will be displayed, decorated by local volunteer
groups.&nbsp; Also the buildings on the historical society grounds have
been decorated with lights so be sure to drive through the village after
dark.&nbsp;The Barton County Historical
Society is South of Great Bend on Highway 281.

Visit the Barton
County Historical Society and Museum on Sunday December 14th&nbsp;from 1 until
5 p.m. for its Annual Ghosts of Christmas Past exhibit. Admission is free and
coffee, punch and cookies will be available. Santa will take time away from his
busy schedule at the North Pole to pose for photos.&nbsp; During the open
house, the Historical Society's beautiful collection of Christmas trees and
holiday themed exhibits will be displayed, decorated by local volunteer
groups.&nbsp; Also the buildings on the historical society grounds have
been decorated with lights so be sure to drive through the village after
dark.&nbsp;The Barton County Historical
Society is South of Great Bend on Highway 281.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764086802166.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765316129199.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Ghosts Of Christmas Past  December 14th

See the Golden
Belt Model Railroad Association’s Annual Christmas Train display at 1405 Main in
downtown Great Bend, November 29th through December 27th.
Nine layout displays are featured including G, Standard, O, S, HO an N Scale Layouts.
Hours are Thursdays and Fridays from 4 until 6 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from
1 until 6 p.m. Admission is free and the public is welcome to stop by.

See the Golden
Belt Model Railroad Association’s Annual Christmas Train display at 1405 Main in
downtown Great Bend, November 29th through December 27th.
Nine layout displays are featured including G, Standard, O, S, HO an N Scale Layouts.
Hours are Thursdays and Fridays from 4 until 6 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from
1 until 6 p.m. Admission is free and the public is welcome to stop by.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764004202493.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764004221765.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Christmas Train Display   Through December 27th 

Stop by the Ellinwood
School-Community Library December 5th through January 10th,
2026, &nbsp;to see the "Americans and the
Holocaust" exhibit. The exhibit is sponsored by the United States
Holocaust Memorial Museum and the American Library Association. The Ellinwood Library
is one of only three libraries in Kansas to host the Holocaust exhibit. The
Ellinwood School-Community Library is at 210 N Schiller Avenue.&nbsp; For more information, call Librarian Sheri Holmes at <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=Ellinwood+School-Community+Library+&amp;sca_esv=f4f0d3251154213d&amp;sxsrf=AE3TifPlGe3upvJJkkDcsCiHV9ozzwdQFw%3A1763990929188&amp;source=hp&amp;ei=kV0kabfVCPa2qtsPzNnpsAQ&amp;iflsig=AOw8s4IAAAAAaSRroUDH_5om8U39TKaNLlBybC92ZTgv&amp;ved=0ahUKEwj34d-l8oqRAxV2m2oFHcxsGkYQ4dUDCBo&amp;uact=5&amp;oq=Ellinwood+School-Community+Library+&amp;gs_lp=Egdnd3Mtd2l6IiNFbGxpbndvb2QgU2Nob29sLUNvbW11bml0eSBMaWJyYXJ5IDIGEAAYFhgeMgIQJjIFEAAY7wUyCBAAGIAEGKIEMggQABiABBiiBDIIEAAYogQYiQVItiRQtxpYtxpwAXgAkAEAmAF9oAF9qgEDMC4xuAEDyAEA-AEC-AEBmAICoALIAagCCsICDRAjGIAEGCcYigUY6gLCAgcQIxgnGOoCwgIKEAAYAxjqAhiPAZgDPfEFGE3_RtmdJ4KSBwMxLjGgB4QEsgcDMC4xuAeLAcIHBzMtMS4wLjHIBz4&amp;sclient=gws-wiz">(620) 564-2306</a>.

Stop by the Ellinwood
School-Community Library December 5th through January 10th,
2026, &nbsp;to see the "Americans and the
Holocaust" exhibit. The exhibit is sponsored by the United States
Holocaust Memorial Museum and the American Library Association. The Ellinwood Library
is one of only three libraries in Kansas to host the Holocaust exhibit. The
Ellinwood School-Community Library is at 210 N Schiller Avenue.&nbsp; For more information, call Librarian Sheri Holmes at <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=Ellinwood+School-Community+Library+&amp;sca_esv=f4f0d3251154213d&amp;sxsrf=AE3TifPlGe3upvJJkkDcsCiHV9ozzwdQFw%3A1763990929188&amp;source=hp&amp;ei=kV0kabfVCPa2qtsPzNnpsAQ&amp;iflsig=AOw8s4IAAAAAaSRroUDH_5om8U39TKaNLlBybC92ZTgv&amp;ved=0ahUKEwj34d-l8oqRAxV2m2oFHcxsGkYQ4dUDCBo&amp;uact=5&amp;oq=Ellinwood+School-Community+Library+&amp;gs_lp=Egdnd3Mtd2l6IiNFbGxpbndvb2QgU2Nob29sLUNvbW11bml0eSBMaWJyYXJ5IDIGEAAYFhgeMgIQJjIFEAAY7wUyCBAAGIAEGKIEMggQABiABBiiBDIIEAAYogQYiQVItiRQtxpYtxpwAXgAkAEAmAF9oAF9qgEDMC4xuAEDyAEA-AEC-AEBmAICoALIAagCCsICDRAjGIAEGCcYigUY6gLCAgcQIxgnGOoCwgIKEAAYAxjqAhiPAZgDPfEFGE3_RtmdJ4KSBwMxLjGgB4QEsgcDMC4xuAeLAcIHBzMtMS4wLjHIBz4&amp;sclient=gws-wiz">(620) 564-2306</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763991733923.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763991753543.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Ellinwood Library Exhibit  Through January 10th 

Experience
Christmas the way it was in the mid 1800s by visiting The Fort Larned National
Historic Site during its annual Christmas Open House, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m.
on Saturday December 13th at the Fort, west of Larned on Highway 156.&nbsp;
There will be self-guided tours, carriage rides, living history and cooking
demonstrations. Enjoy refreshments in the visitor's center and chat with Santa,
dressed in an old-fashioned suit appropriate to the era.&nbsp; This
family-friendly event is free and open to the public.

Experience
Christmas the way it was in the mid 1800s by visiting The Fort Larned National
Historic Site during its annual Christmas Open House, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m.
on Saturday December 13th at the Fort, west of Larned on Highway 156.&nbsp;
There will be self-guided tours, carriage rides, living history and cooking
demonstrations. Enjoy refreshments in the visitor's center and chat with Santa,
dressed in an old-fashioned suit appropriate to the era.&nbsp; This
family-friendly event is free and open to the public.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763842419850.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Fort Larned Christmas Open House  December 13th

Santas
Around the World in downtown Great Bend needs volunteers for the upcoming
holiday season.&nbsp; Volunteers greet visitors, share fun facts about
the 25 lifelike Santa figures and help collect donations.&nbsp; Shifts are Thursdays
and Fridays from 4 until 6 p.m. and Saturdays,
Sundays from 1 until 3:30 p.m.
and from 3:30 until 6 p.m. Santas Around The World is located on the
southwest corner of Lakin and Main in downtown Great Bend.&nbsp; For more information, call (620) 792-1614.

Santas
Around the World in downtown Great Bend needs volunteers for the upcoming
holiday season.&nbsp; Volunteers greet visitors, share fun facts about
the 25 lifelike Santa figures and help collect donations.&nbsp; Shifts are Thursdays
and Fridays from 4 until 6 p.m. and Saturdays,
Sundays from 1 until 3:30 p.m.
and from 3:30 until 6 p.m. Santas Around The World is located on the
southwest corner of Lakin and Main in downtown Great Bend.&nbsp; For more information, call (620) 792-1614.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763132141698.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Santas Around The World Needs Volunteers

If you enjoy bird watching, then plan
to participate in the Annual Cheyenne Bottoms Christmas Bird Count from 8 a.m.
until 4 p.m. on Monday, December 15th.&nbsp; It’s free and open to all bird
watchers regardless of birding experience.&nbsp; Bring binoculars, a bird book,
and dress appropriately for weather conditions that day.&nbsp; Lunch will be
provided and pre-registration is required.&nbsp; Information gathered that day
will be submitted to the National Audubon Society and the Kansas Ornithological
Society. To sign up, call the Kansas Wetlands Education Center at (877)
243-9268. 

If you enjoy bird watching, then plan
to participate in the Annual Cheyenne Bottoms Christmas Bird Count from 8 a.m.
until 4 p.m. on Monday, December 15th.&nbsp; It’s free and open to all bird
watchers regardless of birding experience.&nbsp; Bring binoculars, a bird book,
and dress appropriately for weather conditions that day.&nbsp; Lunch will be
provided and pre-registration is required.&nbsp; Information gathered that day
will be submitted to the National Audubon Society and the Kansas Ornithological
Society. To sign up, call the Kansas Wetlands Education Center at (877)
243-9268. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762960032341.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Christmas Bird Count  December 15th

Get into the Christmas spirit by
attending the Annual Holiday Open House at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center
from 9 a.m. until noon on Saturday, December 13th.&nbsp; Enjoy holiday-themed
activities, children’s crafts, cookie decorating, refreshments and Christmas
gift ideas for the nature lover on your holiday shopping list.&nbsp; The
Holiday Open House is free and open to the public. The Kansas Wetlands
Education Center is on Highway 156 between Great Bend and Claflin. 

Get into the Christmas spirit by
attending the Annual Holiday Open House at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center
from 9 a.m. until noon on Saturday, December 13th.&nbsp; Enjoy holiday-themed
activities, children’s crafts, cookie decorating, refreshments and Christmas
gift ideas for the nature lover on your holiday shopping list.&nbsp; The
Holiday Open House is free and open to the public. The Kansas Wetlands
Education Center is on Highway 156 between Great Bend and Claflin. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762959726922.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Wetlands Holiday Open House  December 13th

The Shafer Art Gallery at Barton
Community College is showing its Museum Exchange exhibit, through December 13th.&nbsp; Museum Exchange incorporates artwork from
four sponsors and eleven institutions including the Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art,
Salina Art Center, Lincoln Art Center and the Birger Sandzen Gallery in
Lindsborg. The exhibit features a vibrant picture of the area's artistic
community through a single connection and collaboration. Shafer Gallery hours
are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and admission is free. For
more information, call the Gallery at (620) 792-9342.

The Shafer Art Gallery at Barton
Community College is showing its Museum Exchange exhibit, through December 13th.&nbsp; Museum Exchange incorporates artwork from
four sponsors and eleven institutions including the Moss-Thorns Gallery of Art,
Salina Art Center, Lincoln Art Center and the Birger Sandzen Gallery in
Lindsborg. The exhibit features a vibrant picture of the area's artistic
community through a single connection and collaboration. Shafer Gallery hours
are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and admission is free. For
more information, call the Gallery at (620) 792-9342.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762959022843.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Shafer Gallery Exhibit   Through December 13th  

The City of Great Bend is looking for
volunteers to staff the Trail of Lights Booth at Brit Spaugh Park in Great
Bend.&nbsp; Groups of at least two people are
needed to great visitors as they drive through the park, keep track of the
number of vehicles, pass out goodie bags and make a note of which county and
state the vehicles are from.&nbsp; Workers are
needed every evening from 6 until 8 p.m. through December 23rd.&nbsp; To find out more, call (620) 793-4111 or send
an email to:&nbsp; <a href="mailto:acrites@greatbendks.net">acrites@greatbendks.net</a>

The City of Great Bend is looking for
volunteers to staff the Trail of Lights Booth at Brit Spaugh Park in Great
Bend.&nbsp; Groups of at least two people are
needed to great visitors as they drive through the park, keep track of the
number of vehicles, pass out goodie bags and make a note of which county and
state the vehicles are from.&nbsp; Workers are
needed every evening from 6 until 8 p.m. through December 23rd.&nbsp; To find out more, call (620) 793-4111 or send
an email to:&nbsp; <a href="mailto:acrites@greatbendks.net">acrites@greatbendks.net</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762788392090.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Trail Of Lights Volunteers Needed  Through December 23rd 

If you want to stay active, meet new people and enjoy the Great Bend
community, then consider joining Step Together Great Bend, a new walking group
that’s open to everyone.&nbsp; The group meets
at 10 a.m. each Saturday at the Vietnam Memorial in Veteran’s Park.&nbsp; Bring comfortable walking shoes and water.
There’s no cost to join. Just show up and walk.

If you want to stay active, meet new people and enjoy the Great Bend
community, then consider joining Step Together Great Bend, a new walking group
that’s open to everyone.&nbsp; The group meets
at 10 a.m. each Saturday at the Vietnam Memorial in Veteran’s Park.&nbsp; Bring comfortable walking shoes and water.
There’s no cost to join. Just show up and walk.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762176306861.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Step Together Great Bend

Explore the history of Barton County with a visit to the
Barton County Historical Society Museum and Village on Highway 281, south of
the river bridge, Great Bend. &nbsp;Winter hours
are10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, closed Saturday, Sunday and
Monday. If you’re not a historical society member, now is a good time to
join.&nbsp; There are levels for life members,
benefactors, contributors, family and individual members. &nbsp;

Explore the history of Barton County with a visit to the
Barton County Historical Society Museum and Village on Highway 281, south of
the river bridge, Great Bend. &nbsp;Winter hours
are10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, closed Saturday, Sunday and
Monday. If you’re not a historical society member, now is a good time to
join.&nbsp; There are levels for life members,
benefactors, contributors, family and individual members. &nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762176224309.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Historical Society Winter Hours 

Now through March 31, 2026, the Kansas Wetlands Education Center is
observing winter hours.&nbsp; The Center will
be closed on Sundays and Mondays, but open from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Tuesday
through Saturday.&nbsp; The center will also
be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Years Day.&nbsp; The Kansas Wetlands Education Center is on
Highway 156 between Great Bend and Claflin.&nbsp;&nbsp;


Now through March 31, 2026, the Kansas Wetlands Education Center is
observing winter hours.&nbsp; The Center will
be closed on Sundays and Mondays, but open from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Tuesday
through Saturday.&nbsp; The center will also
be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Years Day.&nbsp; The Kansas Wetlands Education Center is on
Highway 156 between Great Bend and Claflin.&nbsp;&nbsp;
<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762022068791.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>

Wetlands Center Winter Hours   Through March 31st

For the sixth consecutive year, the public can ride the
Dolly Trolley and experience Great Bend’s Trail of Lights during the holiday
season.&nbsp; The free, hour-long rides depart
from the Rosewood Bargain Barn, 1215 Main in downtown Great Bend.&nbsp; People can sign up for tours online at
SantasAroundTheWorld.com/dolly-trolley, or at Eventbrite.com, <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dolly-trolley-holiday-lights-tour-2024-tickets-1062874940559?aff=oddtdtcreator">https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dolly-trolley-holiday-lights-tour-2024-tickets-1062874940559?aff=oddtdtcreator</a>.&nbsp; You can also schedule trolley rides at
the Rosewood Bargain Barn. Seating is limited to eight people per ticket order. Tours begins
at 6 p.m. on December 2nd and run through December 30th.

For the sixth consecutive year, the public can ride the
Dolly Trolley and experience Great Bend’s Trail of Lights during the holiday
season.&nbsp; The free, hour-long rides depart
from the Rosewood Bargain Barn, 1215 Main in downtown Great Bend.&nbsp; People can sign up for tours online at
SantasAroundTheWorld.com/dolly-trolley, or at Eventbrite.com, <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dolly-trolley-holiday-lights-tour-2024-tickets-1062874940559?aff=oddtdtcreator">https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dolly-trolley-holiday-lights-tour-2024-tickets-1062874940559?aff=oddtdtcreator</a>.&nbsp; You can also schedule trolley rides at
the Rosewood Bargain Barn. Seating is limited to eight people per ticket order. Tours begins
at 6 p.m. on December 2nd and run through December 30th. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762004858613.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Dolly Trolley Tours   December 2nd through the 30th 

You can help the Independent Township Library in Claflin expand its
seating capacity by participating in two community fundraisers.&nbsp; The library will host holiday family photo
sessions each Saturday in November during posted library hours.&nbsp; The library staff will also offer a holiday
gift wrapping service October 20th through December 20th.&nbsp; Drop off your Christmas gifts during posted
hours and then pick up them up the following week.&nbsp; Both fundraisers are by free will donation
and all proceeds will benefit the library’s seating project to make
visits more comfortable. To find out more, stop by 108 North Main in Claflin or
call <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=independent+township+library+in+claflin&amp;rlz=1C1GCEA_enUS939US939&amp;oq=&amp;aqs=chrome.0.69i59i450l2j46i3i143i362j0i3i66i143i362j46i3i143i362l2j0i3i66i143i362l2.404151610j0j7&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8">(620) 587-3488</a>.

You can help the Independent Township Library in Claflin expand its
seating capacity by participating in two community fundraisers.&nbsp; The library will host holiday family photo
sessions each Saturday in November during posted library hours.&nbsp; The library staff will also offer a holiday
gift wrapping service October 20th through December 20th.&nbsp; Drop off your Christmas gifts during posted
hours and then pick up them up the following week.&nbsp; Both fundraisers are by free will donation
and all proceeds will benefit the library’s seating project to make
visits more comfortable. To find out more, stop by 108 North Main in Claflin or
call <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=independent+township+library+in+claflin&amp;rlz=1C1GCEA_enUS939US939&amp;oq=&amp;aqs=chrome.0.69i59i450l2j46i3i143i362j0i3i66i143i362j46i3i143i362l2j0i3i66i143i362l2.404151610j0j7&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8">(620) 587-3488</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760883160183.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Events