Cold Weather Can't Put Chill on Smaller Wausau Holiday Event

Mother Nature tried, but she couldn't dampen the Spirit of the Season Friday night in Wausau.

Wausau Events canceled the Holiday Parade because of cold weather, but the tree lighting and warming party went off without a hitch.

Santa Claus helped throw the switch.

After that he went inside and got the wish list of dozens of girls and boys, including one who's name could be Luke Skywalker.

"I want a real-life lightsaber because I want to see how it works," First Grader Colten told NewsChannel 7 after talking to Santa. He went on to explain a real life lightsaber could slice something in half.

The warming party also featured music and treats.

Lot's of folks made donations to Share Your Holidays, Newschannel 7's annual fundraiser and food drive.

Thanks to everyone for helping out!

If you couldn't make it out Friday night, we'll take food and money donations at our studios on Grand Ave, in Wausau and they'll take money at River Valley Bank branches.

All money raised is matched up to $35,000.

Everything you donate goes to the Salvation Army and Neighbor's Place food pantries.