Once again this year, thousands of people from the Pocatello community showed up to express their good will towards men, women, and children at the 26th Annual Christmas in the Night Time Skies. Bonfires helped minimize the effects of the cool evening temperatures and chili, hot dogs, and hot chocolate were the ideal fare for this special night of giving.
No one ever said that you can’t have fun while helping others, and that’s the spirit that created this amazing event over a quarter century ago. According to Vicki Jenkins, one of the original organizers, “We wanted to create a special evening that would bring people together and provide an opportunity to share the spirit of Christmas with everyone.” Kimberly Nursery was the venue for the event for the first 8 years. It was then moved to the Bannock County Fairgrounds in 1999 where it has remained ever since.
Jenkins continued, “We are so pleased with the turnout this year and with the joyful giving we experienced. We collected 2,500 toys that will be distributed by the Salvation Army and the Marine Corp Reserve Toys for Tots.” The evening event was topped off with a spectacular light show and by a visit from Santa, both of which have become perennial crowd favorites.
“It does a heart good to see so many people share with those in need. It’s all made possible by the generous support of our sponsors including: Farm Bureau Insurance, KZBQ, KORR, KMGI, Country Classics, Affinity Partnership, Mountain Shadow Landscaping, Lantis Fireworks and Lasers, and of course, our oldest continuous sponsor Key Bank. These commitments help renew my faith in the family of man.”
The event is held each year on the Saturday following Thanksgiving. Plans have already begun for next year’s Christmas in the Night Time Skies.
