Small town, big heart: Kewanna launches first Once Upon a December celebration

KEWANNA, Ind. -- The community in Kewanna may be small, but its heart was on full display during its first-ever “Once Upon a December” holiday celebration.

The event brought Santa Claus, horse-drawn carriage rides and ballet dancers to the heart of the small town, filling downtown with Christmas cheer. The event was organized by The Hearty and the Kewanna Arts Alliance with a focus on bringing people together while highlighting local arts.

“What we're trying to do is revitalize the downtown and bring the community together,” said Gail Karas, a board member of the Kewanna Arts Alliance.

The evening began inside the Hearty building downtown, where attendees enjoyed performances from local artists, including dance troupes, poetry readings and community caroling. Organizers said the venue itself holds special meaning for the town’s arts community.

“Our founder was a rather famous artist regionally named Dianey Tesler, and she's passed away, but she's the one that bought this building and started this,” said Lori Roberts, president of the Hearty nonprofit.

“It’s just so wonderful to carry on Diane's tradition.”

Following the performances, Santa Claus made a festive entrance aboard a horse-drawn carriage and met with local children for photos.

Organizers say they hope “Once Upon a December” will become an annual tradition in Kewanna. The Hearty and the Kewanna Arts Alliance are asking community members to share feedback and ideas for future events through a survey.