Left Hand Valley Courier - All Local, All The Time

Cities and towns across the country and world ring in the yuletide season in numerous ways: parades of lights, tree lighting ceremonies, holiday craft bazaars, and more. Niwot will be joining in on this practice with the annual tradition, Enchanted Evening.

Scheduled for Friday, Nov. 29, the community will come together to celebrate the holidays--there will be musical groups throughout Old Town and Cottonwood Square; local crafters; an ice sculpture demonstration; holiday window contest voting; and of course Santa will be at the Grange, among other activities.

"I hope that they [the community] really feel enfranchised and that it's an important place to be," said Leigh Suskin who is helping organize the event this year. She discussed how she was honored to assist Linda and Chuck Klueber, the main event organizers. This will be her second year helping with Enchanted Evening.

So, not only is this celebration intended to recognize the holidays, it's an opportunity to come together as a community to connect. As Suskin puts it, holiday events like these are a holistic approach to creating opportunities for the community to embrace each other and acknowledge everyone for their hard work throughout the year.

Courtesy Photo

Santa coming to town is always a good time for all.

It's important to note just how much work has gone into this event. The Niwot Business Association and the Local Improvement Districts have both contributed to its organization. But so have a number of other smaller businesses in the community, as evidenced by the entertainment provided by the Niwot Community Semi-Marching Free Grange Band and all those who are participating in the holiday window decorating contest. All this intra-community cooperation demonstrates Niwotians' shared pride and passion for the town and ultimately is what makes Enchanted Evening such a special event.

"The beauty is in the simplicity, it's not over the top, it's really just focused on coming together and connecting," Suskin said. She expressed the hope that the small-town community approach resonates with residents, allowing them to feel supported.

While Enchanted Evening is a favorite part of the holiday season, it is just the beginning of Niwot's holiday related celebrations this year. There will also be the annual parade and a craft fair later in December. Each of these events are special opportunities for the community to interact, recognize, and support each other. The holiday parade will be held on Saturday, Dec. 7 and the fair on Dec. 14, so be sure to come back to celebrate more holiday spirit!