By Kirk Hutchinson
Fort Riley Garrison Public Affairs
Fort Riley’s annual holiday tree lighting ceremony takes place Monday at 5:30 p.m. at Ware Parade Field, 500 Huebner Road.
Highlights of the event include a children’s choir from Fort Riley Child and Youth Services, the lighting of the 20-foot tall tree and a visit from Santa Claus. Brig. Gen. Niave Knell, 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley deputy commanding general, is scheduled to speak before the switch is flipped to light the tree, which stands in front of the Fort Riley garrison headquarters. Children will have the opportunity to visit with Santa Claus indoors following the tree lighting. Hot chocolate and cookies will also be available.
Operation Santa Claus will be accepting donations of new, unwrapped toys in the $10 - $20 price range for children of Soldiers, E-5 and below. Monetary donations will also be accepted.
The event is open to the public. Visitors who do not have a Department of Defense ID card can get a pass at the Visitor Control Center near the Henry Gate, Exit 301 off of I-70. Visitors can also apply for a pass online in advance at https://pass.aie.army.mil/Riley/.