By Anthony Finlay
Play Bold Hutch
Downtown Hutchinson introduced a new holiday tradition this November with the installation and lighting of a 30-foot Christmas tree in DCI Park. Nearly 100 residents attended the inaugural lighting despite cold, rainy weather—an early indication that the community is eager to participate in shared seasonal experiences.
The event took place during Third Thursday, our monthly arts and culture gathering downtown, and included a performance by Family Community Theatre along with a children’s story read by Mayor Stacy Goss.
Continuing the holiday fun, this week, partner organizations are preparing for the annual Light Up Hutch Christmas Parade and Festival. This year’s schedule offers a balance of family-oriented programs, adult experiences, nonprofit engagement, local arts, and downtown activation.
The Festival starts on Friday, December 5, with the Holiday Happy Hour at the Hutchinson Zoo, a 21-and-over after-hours program that includes food, beverages, music, and animal encounters. This adult-focused event supports the Zoo’s ongoing efforts to bring fun and unique programming to our community.
On Saturday, the day begins with the Hutch Rec’s annual Gingerbread House Decorating at Memorial Hall from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. This free event also includes visits and photo opportunities with Santa on-site, as well as outdoor carriage rides. Hundreds of our community residents have made the Gingerbread House Decorating event a must-do on their holiday tradition list.
At 3 p.m., the Family Community Theatre presents A Christmas Story: The Musical at the Flag Theater. This production supports local performing arts and strengthens the connection between seasonal programming and downtown venues.
From 4 to 6 p.m., United Way of Reno County hosts Spread the Light Holiday Park in DCI Park. This event highlights local nonprofits, giving residents opportunities to support our community resource organizations while enjoying holiday activities, a live DJ, and food trucks. The new 30-foot tree will serve as the park’s centerpiece throughout the festival.
The Festival concludes with the Light Up Hutch Parade on Main Street at 6 p.m. This nighttime parade continues to draw strong participation from businesses, civic organizations, and community groups. Residents are encouraged to arrive early to secure viewing spots and take advantage of seasonal offerings from pop-up vendors.
These events are more than holiday entertainment—they are important civic engagement tools. Community events contribute to economic activity, support small businesses, and create opportunities for residents to visit and engage with the downtown district. In communities our size, consistent events play an essential role in shaping local identity and building long-term connections between residents and the places they share.
Events like the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, Spread the Light Holiday Park, and the Light Up Hutch Parade serve as platforms for collaboration among local government, nonprofits, arts organizations, and businesses. When multiple partners participate, the result is expanded reach, shared responsibility, and stronger community investment. These coordinated efforts help ensure that Hutchinson continues to offer a vibrant and active downtown environment.
Additionally, recurring seasonal events give residents something to look forward to each year. This consistency builds local pride, encourages repeat participation, and allows traditions to grow across generations. Families, individuals, and organizations return to these events because they know what to expect and because they see value in being part of a community that actively engages its residents.
As Hutchinson continues to grow and evolve, events like these remain essential strategies for strengthening engagement and supporting downtown vitality. The holiday season simply provides a highly visible backdrop that highlights what strong community collaboration can achieve. Hutch Rec is proud to support these efforts and looks forward to welcoming residents to another successful year of Light Up Hutch.
Anthony Finlay is the Executive Director of Hutchinson Recreation Commission. He can be reached at tfinlay@hutchrec.com.