McCook Chamber Launches Holiday Events, Light Parade, Grinch Movie and More
- Anna LaBay
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
McCook Neb. — The holiday season is officially underway in downtown McCook, and the Chamber of Commerce has rolled out a full calendar of family-friendly activities, local shopping incentives, and festive community traditions through mid-December. From carriage rides to caroling, downtown tours to gingerbread creations, the coming weeks are set to bring light, music, and holiday cheer to Norris Avenue.
Chamber/City/MEDC Mixer at the Keystone
As holiday preparations continue, the Chamber, City, and MEDC will host a mixer Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. inside the Keystone. This gathering offers members and partners a chance to connect as the season’s major events approach.
Gingerbread House Entries Due Tuesday by 5 p.m.
The Chamber’s gingerbread house competition is also underway. Entries must be dropped off by 5 p.m. on Tuesday at the Keystone so they can be displayed for the Chamber/City/MEDC mixer. There is no cost to participate, and registration details and guidelines are available through the Explore McCook App.
Noel on Norris — Saturday, December 6
The first Noel on Norris celebration arrives this week, bringing with it lights, music, treats, and one of McCook’s most beloved Christmas traditions.
What to expect:
• Carriage Rides from 3:00 to 7:30 PM
Spots are full. Registration is available through the Explore McCook App or Chamber website.
• Light Parade at 6:00 PM
No cost to participate, and no required theme. Creativity and community spirit are encouraged. Registration is available through the Explore McCook App.
• Community Caroling in Norris Park
Following the parade, the public is invited to gather around the park sidewalks for a short round of traditional holiday carols.
• Stage Performances
Piano and vocal students from Christy Stevens Studio will perform, followed by the annual outdoor Nutcracker rehearsal.
• Family Activities in the Park
Hot chocolate, cookies, candy canes, popcorn, Santa visits, face painting, and children’s activities will fill the park throughout the evening.
The Second Noel Weekend — Sunday, December 14
Free family entertainment continues the following weekend with The Grinch showing at the Fox Theatre and a Grinch-themed putt-putt course at the Keystone from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. Both are offered at no cost, supported by local sponsors including Citadel, High Street Insurance, Community Hospital, Pinnacle, Kinship Pointe, M&B, area tourism support, and Walmart.
Downtown Holiday Home Tours — December 13 and 14
Downtown apartments will open for festive walk-throughs, offering an opportunity to view seasonal décor, historic charm, and newly restored spaces in McCook’s urban core.
Two tour formats will be available:
A progressive-style tasting tour on December 13
Groups rotate between homes, sampling holiday treats and drinks along the way.
A public apartment tour on December 14
A relaxed, self-paced tour of six decorated downtown residences.
Proceeds support Beautify McCook. Tickets can be purchased on the McCook Chamber Website
Shop Local and Win Chamber Bucks
Holiday spending at Chamber member businesses now comes with a chance to win. Purchases of $100 or more can be uploaded through the Explore McCook App, with each receipt counting as one entry into drawings for $250 in Chamber Bucks.
A separate business lighting competition will also take place, with judges touring local storefront displays and awarding promotional radio packages to two winning businesses.
Everything in One Place
All registration forms, event details, maps, contest information, receipt submissions, and updates can be found through the Explore McCook App.