NORQUAY - It was a clear and frosty Saturday when the Highway 49 Chamber of Commerce hosted “Santa Day” in Norquay on December 4.
Organizers were thrilled that Santa was able to make a stop at Bell Park between the hours of 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. With his signature rosy cheeks and a twinkle in his eye, the jolly man told this Kamsack Times reporter that he was very happy to see the children of Norquay – saying they were all on his “nice” list. After listening to each child’s gift request, Santa wondered if recent supply chain issues might represent a challenge in finding some of those special gifts. However, the more he thought about it, he remembered that Canadian children were known to be very polite and they would surely understand his predicament.
Once each child had a turn chatting with Santa, a group of local volunteers in long, striped elf caps handed each child a bag full of sweet treats and a list featuring a local scavenger hunt. Once the hunt was completed, the children headed to MLJ Accounting from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. where they were treated to hot dogs and hot chocolate, and invited to enter their names in a special prize draw.
Meanwhile, out on Main Street, the sound of jingle bells could be heard in the distance. As the sound grew louder, residents watched in anticipation to see what could be making the noise. Suddenly, a pair of large black horses dressed in bells came striding up the street. Behind them, they were pulling a wagon. The driver invited all of the families of Norquay to hop into the wagon and take a ride around town. Many families huddled together until the wagon was full, and those who couldn’t fit, waited for the next round. Eventually, everyone had a turn on the wintery wagon rides that circled through town between the hours of 2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m.
During this time, the shops in Norquay were buzzing with the excitement of holiday shopping. Many businesses had Santa Day specials and a number of residents were happy to be shopping local to support the small business owners.
It was just after 6 p.m. when fireworks exploded in the cold night sky. The Kamsack Times learned that the firework display was sponsored by Brice Dahlin at Dahlin PowerSports as well as some other Highway 49 Chamber of Commerce member sponsors.
After a full day of treats and adventures, local families huddled to watch the bursting fireworks with big smiles and hearts filled with Christmas magic.
