County cheer

COLFAX — With the onset of restrictions and health concerns, towns across Whitman County are re-thinking their traditional holiday festivities. Many have canceled events and Santa visits while others are enduring with safety measures in place. Following are events that have been confirmed by the Gazette; events that have been canceled are not listed.

ENDICOTT

Fireworks launch at 5 p.m. Dec. 5 to kick off the town’s annual Santa visit. After the fireworks show, Santa will arrive at the Endicott Gun Club via firetruck with lights engaged. Youth can visit Santa and get a treat bag until 7 p.m.

LACROSSE

The LaCrosse Business Group hosts Santa at the Gathering Place Dec. 5, 10 to 11 a.m. Visits with the Jolly Ol’ Elf will look differently with only one family inside at a time. Families are instructed to pull up to the back door of the Gathering Place and wait in their vehicles until one of Santa’s helpers singles them to enter. Masks and social distancing will be observed.

MALDEN

Those wanting to support the Pine Creek communities are invited to join others in Malden on Dec. 5 at 1:30 p.m. for a tree lighting ceremony to launch the holiday spirit.

ST. JOHN

Although there will be less activities, St. John’s Winterfest is still trying to carry on as many traditions as possible. Stores will be open for local shoppers to find sales and specials Dec. 5 and 6. On Dec. 5, Santa will be at Torry’s Country Store from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Youth can take pictures with Santa, but will not be able to sit in his lap. Visitors are requested to wear masks and follow the store floor plan. Line-up for the parade is at 4 p.m. at Torry’s Country Store with parade start at 4:15. Spectators are asked to keep social distancing in mind at all times. Fireworks sponsored by the St. John Community Club light off at dark. The show will be big enough to be seen from anywhere in St. John, according to one of the event’s hosts, Amanda Webb.