Fort Riley’s annual holiday tree lighting ceremony takes place Thursday at 5:30 p.m. at Ware Parade Field, 500 Huebner Road.
Highlights of the event include holiday caroling, entertainment by the 1st Infantry Division Band, refreshments and a visit from Santa Claus. Col. Paul Krattiger, 1st Infantry Division Chief of Staff, 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. Refreshments will be provided by USO Kansas, Fort Riley Center.
Operation Santa Claus will also 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, or by applying online at https://pass.aie.army.mil/riley/. Online pass applications should be made at least 24 hours in advance. For details about access procedures, call (785) 239-2982.