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Ucross Announces Date for Community Christmas Party
Ucross, the acclaimed artist residency program, announced on Oct. 18, that the 11th annual Community Christmas Celebration will be held at the Raymond Plank Center on Saturday, December 16, beginning at 4 p.m. sharp. The family-friendly festivities are open to the public, with free tickets available at ucross.org.
Craig Johnson, bestselling author and a longtime Ucross neighbor, will give a special fireplace reading of the new Christmas-themed short story featuring his celebrated character, Sheriff Walt Longmire.
The evening also will feature a special performance by a former Ucross artist-in-residence, to be revealed, as well as caroling by the Buffalo High School Balladiers, crafts for children and festive refreshments.
The festivities will culminate in cannon fire by Ucross neighbor Joe Reed, launching a spectacular fireworks display by Bruce Burns. The festivities will be underscored by thousands of Christmas lights in the trees across The Park at Ucross, strung by Powder River Energy Corporation and Ucross staff.
“The Christmas celebration is one of our most beloved traditions, and it’s one way that we give back to our community,” said Ucross President William Belcher. “The evening is a joyful blend of artists, students, families, neighbors, and community members, all in the beautiful setting of Ucross, Wyoming. It’s the perfect way to close out our 40th anniversary year.”
In the spirit of Christmas, guests are invited to bring canned goods and non-perishable food items for families in need. After the event, Ucross will distribute the donated items to community food pantries in Sheridan, Buffalo and Clearmont.
Named for the nonprofit organization’s founder, the Raymond Plank Center is located at the intersection of Highways 14 and 16 East in Ucross. For further information and free tickets, visit ucross.org. or contact Ucross Director of External Relations Caitlin Addlesperger at caddlesperger@ucross.org 307.752.7091
