Annual Celebration at the Cook Community Center
On Friday, December 1, 2017, the community celebrated the annual Cook’s Country Christmas. In previous years, the event took place in the City Park near the Gazebo and at the Library and the Comet Theater. That year, the celebration moved to the Cook Community Center in the Doug Johnson Recreation Area, providing a fresh venue for everyone to enjoy.
Lights of Love Ceremony and Santa’s Arrival
The festivities began at 5:00 p.m. with the Lights of Love tree lighting ceremony, followed by lively Christmas caroling. Thistledew generously provided the tree and ice candles, setting a festive mood for the evening. At 5:30 p.m., Santa made a grand entrance on a horse-drawn sleigh adorned with Christmas lights. Children eagerly followed Santa into the Community Center, where they had the opportunity to speak with him and receive gift bags, courtesy of the Timberwolves Snowmobile Club, along with a visit from Mrs. Claus and her elves. Refreshments were provided for all attendees, ensuring that the night felt festive and community-centered.
Refreshments and Community Contributions
Several local groups contributed to the evening’s treats. The Friends of the Park offered hot dogs and chips, VHHP served cookies and apple cider, while McDonald’s provided orange drink for everyone to enjoy. These contributions added to the warm, welcoming atmosphere of the celebration, making it a delightful gathering for all ages.
Holiday Movie and Local Vendors
At 6:30 p.m., the movie “Snow Buddies” was scheduled to play, courtesy of the Friends of the Park. Although some attendees had to leave before the film began, many enjoyed the lively environment. Additionally, Diane Pascuzzi from The Watering Can was on hand, selling beautiful wreaths and decorations. Several other local stallholders offered their goods inside, sponsored by the Northwoods Friends of the Arts. The presence of these local vendors provided an opportunity for people to find unique holiday gifts while supporting the community.
Appreciation for Community Efforts
The event proved to be a great success, and everyone appreciated the hard work and dedication from so many. Special thanks go to the Friends of the Park, the City of Cook, Northwoods Friends of the Arts, the Timberwolves Snowmobile Club, and Thistledew for making this celebration a wonderful community event. Looking forward to next year, Santa’s visit promises to be another highlight of the season.
A Successful Community Event
The Cook’s Country Christmas celebration was more than just a festive occasion; it was a true community gathering that brought people together to enjoy the holiday spirit. The contributions of local organizations and volunteers made the event special and ensured its success. From the beautiful tree lighting to the arrival of Santa, every detail was thoughtfully arranged, creating an enjoyable experience for all ages.
The event also highlighted the importance of local businesses and community groups in organizing such gatherings. The involvement of the Timberwolves Snowmobile Club, Thistledew, and the Northwoods Friends of the Arts, along with the contributions of the Friends of the Park and City of Cook, showed the collaborative effort that goes into making such a celebration possible. These partnerships foster a sense of togetherness and community pride, which were evident throughout the evening.
Looking Back on a Memorable Event
The Cook’s Country Christmas celebration in 2017 remains a highlight for the community, and its success is still remembered fondly. The event brought together families, friends, and local groups in a festive and meaningful way, strengthening community bonds. As we look back, the memories from that joyful evening remind us of the importance of these traditions.
Below are some photos capturing the festive moments from the 2017 Cook’s Country Christmas celebration:
