Christmas in Cosby brings community together for the holidays 

By: Darren Doyle

COSBY, Mo. (KQTV) -- The Christmas in Cosby annual celebration took place Thursday evening at the town's Fire Hall thanks to efforts by its community alliance.

Cosby area residents were treated to hot cocoa, meetings with Santa and Mrs. Claus and food from Gina's Cafe.

Musician Jason Riley played live Christmas tunes throughout the night while the community reconnected for the holiday season.

Making sure events like these continue to take place is one of the top priorities for the Cosby Community Alliance, according to member Nathan Bunse. 

"Obviously, it's just a good time for the community to get together and to just get together for the Christmas season," Bunse said. "We just really want things for the community, so the community can get together and remain a strong community, and just for people to get together and to have camaraderie."

Along with numerous crafts, activities and giveaways, Orrick Acres provided traditional manger animals for its tree lighting, which took place across the street from the hall. Patrons of the event were able to greet a camel, a donkey and two sheep. 

Being able to provide the animals for the event brought joy to Penny Orrick, president of Orrick Acres.

"I've loved animals my whole life, which is what's gotten me into sharing my animals with others, and especially the small-town communities," Orrick said. "They're very welcoming, and it's just that I actually don't live too far from here, so that makes it nice. It's kind of like my own hometown."

Cosby's Community Alliance plans to make sure events like these, along with the Watermelon Festival, are mainstays for years to come. For more on their alliance and how to get involved, visit their Facebook.