By Jennifer Theurer

Photo courtesy of Clay Center Christmas Festival and Lighted Parade Facebook page.

What started as a lighted Christmas parade with 17 entries in 2017 has now become a source of joy for many Clay County residents.

The Christmas tree fundraiser was added in 2018 and saw about 37 trees planted. This year, there could be up to 35 entries in the Christmas parade, and the town square showcases 101 trees.

Organizer Laura Schwartz, along with her husband Cody, has been involved with the event since the beginning.

“All of it’s awesome because we couldn’t do it without the people who donate the money to the organization,” she said.

Those donations go to the Lighthouse for Christ to provide for Clay County residents in need and to the Clay Center Community High School wrestling teams, the CCCHS FFA chapter, and the Lincoln Creek 4-H club for their help moving, installing, and caring for the trees.

“I think the cool part about the whole event is that it’s showing the kids and the families in the community that you’re not just writing a check to donate towards an organization,” Schwartz said. “You’re showing up to do the work because cutting trees and dragging them on the square and putting them on the square, it’s a lot of work.”

From the second week in November through the second weekend in January, the trees are displayed for all to enjoy.

“You don’t know who all you’re helping,” she said. “But it’s really fun to show the kids that it’s important to give back to your community.”