'All is Bright Christmas' Tour returns to Cheyenne County

SIDNEY, Neb -- The holiday season in Cheyenne County is set to sparkle with the return of the All Is Bright Christmas Tour.

The new festive tradition, led by Kendra Mitchell, kicks off its second year on Saturday, Nov. 30 at the Cheyenne County Fairgrounds Pavilion Building in Sidney. Opening night will feature a special "Reindeer Games" themes with live reindeer (weather permitting) courtesy of Viaero Wireless.

The tour, made possible by Mitchell and a dedicated group of volunteers, transforms the venue into a winter wonderland. Highlights include an enchanted forest brought to life by Dawn Buchart, who hand-sculpted elves, including bringing life to a mischievous elf throwing a snowball at his elf friend. The Sidney High School Art Club contributed by painting Whoville characters and adorning a holiday train, while the Sidney Gold Rush Committee provided an Old Town Christmas display.

Mitchell even had help from a little visitor from a family who stopped in for information on Cheyenne County at the Visitors Center. Their granddaughter asked if she could help paint one of the houses in Whoville. Mitchell provided a paint brush and was happy to spread the Christmas Spirit – even if it was the off-season.

Special weekends include Whoville Weekend on December 6 and 7, inviting visitors to dress as their favorite Whoville characters, and Sensory-Friendly Night on December 12 from 3 to 7 p.m., offering a quieter, more accessible experience.

Other themed nights include Team Red vs. Team Green (December 13 and 14) and Ugly Sweater Weekend (December 20-22), with a photo booth for showcasing festive apparel.

The tour drew families from Nebraska, Colorado and Wyoming in its first year. Hours are 4-8 p.m. each night, unless stated otherwise.