SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KTIV) -
It didn't feel like Christmas, but it sure looked like it in downtown Sioux City Monday night.
The holiday season began with a bang. Fireworks lit up the night sky, and hundreds headed to the Holiday Lighted Parade. The best part?
"Probably all the lights and the Christmas music and stuff," said 10-year-old Haley Hanika.
Don't forget seeing Santa ring in the season. He rolled into a town on a sleigh trimmed with sleigh bells.
A favorite Sioux City tradition this time of year is the Festival of Trees. Whether you're into kitschy or classic, there's a faux fir for everyone down the path of pine trees.
Area organizations and businesses sponsor a tree. Then they're auctioned off for charity.
"One of the cool things about this project is that we do pick a different charity every year, and we try to make sure that it's a local charity. It's somebody we know can use the money for a great cause," explained Dr. Tom Molstad, the event's coordinator.
This year's beneficiary is the Food Bank of Siouxland's kids backpack program.
Now, the jolly holiday wouldn't be complete without a visit to see Santa. At Santa's House, Mrs. Claus and the elves are busy making cookies, while the Jolly old Elf poses for pictures. Topping wish lists this year:
"Money…" said 14-year-old Parker Rasdal.
"A doll…" said Savannah Munoz.
"Spookier Buddies…" said four-year-old Brooklyn Hanika.
Hana Oldroyd said she wants, "I want a Nook."
"A Barbie…" said four-year-old Breasia.
"I want an IPhone, I really want that," said ten-year-old Ellie Risdal.
"An XBox 360," added Haley Hanika.
Her six-year-old sister Alexis said, "I want the movie "Spookie Buddies."
What does Santa want?
"I would like a White Christmas, that's the 1st thing because the sleigh runs a lot better in snow," Santa said.
Luckily, Santa landed just fine in Siouxland.
Santa's House:
Where: Sioux City Hotel and Conference Center Atrium (4th & Jackson)
Open Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays
Festival of Trees:
Ho-Chunk Centre (formerly Terra Centre)
Thru November 29th
Auction: Nov. 29th 6:30
