Fun and fireworks with Santa in Leader

By Joan Janzen

It was chilly outside, but that didn’t stop Leader residents from enjoying the warmth of the festive season at Santa Night on Tuesday, Dec. 2. The evening began with the clip-clop of hooves on pavement as a horse-drawn sleigh arrived in town, giving families rides around the community.

The community of Leader enjoyed the warmth of the season at Santa Night on December 2nd. A visit from Santa, late night shopping, hot chocolate, hot dogs, sleigh rides, bonfire, fireworks and a timely snowfall all helped make it a fantastic night. Photo by Karri Wagman

Shoppers took advantage of late-night deals inside local businesses, while plenty of activity kept the outdoors lively. Hot chocolate was served at an outdoor stand, and free hot dogs were offered at the Dirk Family Pharmacy Marketplace, thanks to local business sponsorships.

Santa himself made an appearance, beard neatly trimmed, ready for photos with eager children and busy handing out treat bags. The trees and greenery at Millennium Gardens were decorated with festive lights, and Cypress Hills Winery offered wine samples for those looking to add a bit of cheer to the evening.

Families also gathered around a bonfire in front of Leader Hardware, awaiting the highlight of the night. At 8 p.m., fireworks lit up the sky over Derwin Ristau’s field just outside town. The Town of Leader, along with the RMs of Clinworth, Happyland and Deerforks, helped make the spectacular display possible.

“It was such a fantastic night!” said Luanne Meier-Todd. “And the snow made it magical!”

The community of Leader enjoyed a perfect mix of seasonal cheer at Santa Night, with visits from Santa, sleigh rides, hot chocolate and hot dogs, late-night shopping, a bonfire, fireworks, and a timely snowfall.