Hailey
Chase County: The holiday season is here, and excitement is building across Emporia and nearby communities as stores prepare for one of the busiest shopping weekends of the year.
After families enjoy their Thanksgiving meals and the turkey sleepiness fades away, people begin getting ready for Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and a long list of festive local events.
Many merchants are opening their doors with discounts, decorations, and warm holiday spirit to welcome shoppers from all around.
Black Friday Energy Moves Into Small Business Saturday
Emporia Businesses Welcome Local Shoppers
As always, Black Friday signals the official start of the holiday shopping season. Big bargains appear everywhere, and stores fill up quickly. In Emporia, the excitement continues right into Small Business Saturday, a special day that focuses on supporting local shops.
According to Casey Woods, Director of Emporia Main Street, downtown business owners are fully prepared.
She explained that merchants are “waiting with open arms and open doors,” ready to help residents find gifts, holiday décor, and special items while enjoying the charm of locally owned stores.
Supporting small businesses not only helps local families but also strengthens the community economy. This is why many shoppers look forward to exploring Emporia’s unique shops during this festive weekend.
Chase County Joins the Celebration with Country Christmas
Family Fun Starts with Kid’s Night Before Christmas
The holiday cheer doesn’t stop in Emporia. Just a short drive away, Chase County is kicking off its annual Country Christmas celebration on Friday and Saturday. The event promises two full days of joyful activities for children and families.
Toni Schneider, Director of the Chase County Chamber, invites families to begin the fun with the Kid’s Night Before Christmas, happening Friday from 6–8 pm at the historic 1900 Theater. Kids can enjoy games, crafts, stories, and treats in a warm, festive setting.
A Weekend Full of Christmas Events
Art, Crafts, Food, Tours, and More
Saturday’s schedule in Chase County is packed with activities in both Strong City and Cottonwood Falls. Below is a quick look at the highlights:
| Event | Location | Time / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Art & Craft Fair | St. Anthony Church Parish Hall, Strong City | All morning |
| Brunch at Harshman Creek | Cottonwood Falls | Open to families |
| Prairie PastTimes Open House | Cottonwood Falls | Local crafts and displays |
| Guided Courthouse Tours | Historic Chase County Courthouse | Scheduled throughout the day |
| Silent Auction, Concessions & Chili Feed | 518 Third, Cottonwood Falls | Hosted by Old School Development District |
Supporting Community Projects
Emporia & Chase County Launch: Lee Anne Coester, speaking for the Chase County Old School Development District, encourages visitors to participate in the silent auction and chili feed, which help raise money for ongoing community projects.
She shared that she loves the warm and cheerful atmosphere that the Country Christmas brings every year.
Santa, Lights, and a Parade to End the Day
The final moments of Chase County Country Christmas are some of the most magical. Families can meet Cowboy Santa at 4 pm, followed by the Courthouse lighting ceremony at 6 pm.
Right after the lights switch on, the community parade begins, filling the streets with music, floats, and bright colors that celebrate the spirit of the season.
Emporia & Chase County Launch: The holiday season in Emporia and Chase County offers much more than shopping. It brings communities together through local businesses, family activities, festive decorations, and joyful traditions.
From Small Business Saturday in Emporia to the Country Christmas events in Chase County, residents have plenty of ways to enjoy the season while supporting their local neighborhoods.
These celebrations create memories for families and keep the true spirit of the holidays alive across the region.