HASTINGS, Neb. (KSNB) - This year’s Celebration of Lights featured a few new additions, including a 15-foot Christmas tree and Santa sleigh for photo opportunities as downtown Hastings prepared for the holiday season.

The event drew crowds downtown with about 40 vendors, activities for children and adults, food options and Santa Claus appearances.

“I think this is definitely the introduction to Christmas in Hastings,” said Sydney Erickson, community development director. “So, with this, we are truly excited to light up our downtown, invite people down here to start holiday shopping.”

Small Town Famous secured its Christmas tree through community support after initial costs exceeded expectations.

“I think (we) got the estimate back for the tree stand, and it was a little more than we th

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