Festival of Trees & Cookies with the Claus Family:

The holiday season in our region wouldn’t be complete without two beloved traditions hosted by Fraser, Ltd.—the Festival of Trees and Cookies with the Claus Family. These events have become annual favorites, bringing neighbors together to celebrate the joy of the season while also supporting programs that serve families year-round.

For more than 130 years, Fraser, Ltd. has been North Dakota’s longest-serving nonprofit, dedicated to empowering children, youth, and adults. What began in 1893 as the Florence Crittenton Home for unwed mothers has grown into a broad range of programs. Today, Fraser provides support for individuals with disabilities, inclusive child care, Transitional Youth Services, Valley Hope Counseling, and Representative Payee Services. The mission is simple: to help people on their journey to independence and build a stronger, more inclusive community.

The Festival of Trees will be on display at the FARGODOME from Friday, Nov. 7, through Friday, Dec. 5. Visitors can stroll through a sparkling forest of decorated trees, each created by local businesses, organizations, and individuals. The trees feature everything from whimsical themes to timeless holiday elegance. In addition to brightening the season, the event helps provide trees for families in need and raises funds for Fraser’s ongoing work in the community.

Another highlight is Cookies with the Claus Family, happening Friday, Nov. 28, from 1–4 p.m. at the FARGODOME. This free community event is full of holiday fun for families. At 1 p.m., Santa and the Claus Family will arrive in a horse-drawn sleigh, kicking off an afternoon of activities such as cookie decorating, sleigh rides, face painting, bouncy houses, holiday art projects, photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and more. Each family will also take home a grab bag filled with festive surprises.

This year, Cass County Electric Cooperative is proud to support the event by donating holiday-themed cookie cutters included in every grab bag. CCEC also sponsors and decorates a tree for a family. It’s our way of helping families carry the celebration home, continuing the fun and making new memories together.

Events like these remind us of the power of community and the joy that comes from gathering with loved ones. We encourage members to mark their calendars and join in the celebration. For more information about Fraser, Ltd. and its programs, visit www.fraserltd.org.