Lighting up the ‘Burg

WILLIAMSBURG — Santa took requests, a horse-drawn wagon gave free rides and businesses offered specials to visitors during Williamsburg’s Night on the Square last weekend.

Families visited businesses to have their passports checked off for prizes and to pick up treats and stocking stuffers.

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At Hills Bank, Penny Bear gave hugs and took selfies with children and adults while Cienna Coffman and Bethany Gorsch offered apple slices, sunglasses and aprons.

The Williamsburg Historical Commission welcomed people through its doors to see exhibits on the first floor and old hospital rooms on the second. Bill Wehner, Bill Heick and Brad Cavett gave out candy and information at the American Legion Hall.

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A long line filed through Roehokasse Meat Market for meat samples while Russ Heitmann spooned up samples of ham and bean soup for owner Nancy Jacobi. “I’m her father,” said Heitmann. “I’ve been drafted.”

A pair of horses plodded around the square pulling a wagon loaded with smiling adults and children. The free wagon rides by Blue Moon Carriage of Central City were sponsored by Williamsburg Dental Health.

Though the night was warm for November — mid to low 40s — Doc’s Taproom provided heaters, an open fire and alcoholic beverages to warm the body.

Sirens elsewhere in town reminded the crowd on the square that the school’s football team was returning from the UNI Dome in Cedar Falls with a State Championship trophy.

With the flip of a switch, hundreds of white bulbs lit up the buildings on the square. Soft Christmas carols played in the square’s center, accompanying the chatter of friends and family meandering through the decorated trees on the grounds.

The 2023 holiday season has officially begun.

See more photos of Night on the Square in Friday’s Williamsburg Journal Tribune.