An Aplington Christmas

“Silent night, holy night, all is calm, all is bright…” echoed through Aplington city park on Monday night as Gabby Hanken led around 70 neighbors in caroling at the park shelter. And in Aplington, all was bright, as the city lit up with beautiful Christmas decorations during the first annual Community of Lights festivities.

Laughter and friendly chatter filled the air after Aplington carolers finished their tunes, as friends, neighbors and families visited over cookies and hot cocoa while kids enjoyed candy canes. The shelter house itself was a winter wonderland of Christmas lights, Christmas trees, plaid, and candles in Mason jars, and the familiar strains of “Jingle Bells,” “Joy to the World,” “O Holy Night,” and “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” added to the festive mood. “It’s like a Hallmark Christmas, a perfect moment,” said Aplington resident Mary Myers.

The evening culminated with the lighting of the Christmas tree by Miss Aplington Sydney Hanken, with a countdown by Caleb Meyer and loud cheering from the crowd.

Everyone is invited to return as festivities continue over the next two Saturdays from 6-8 p.m. with Reindeer Games and a visit from Santa—and more Christmas cookies and hot cocoa.

For the full story, see this week’s Eclipse News-Review. Subscribe by calling 319-346-1461 or by clicking here.