Santa leads vehicles past Ranchos Christmas displays

Santa Claus led a train of vehicles through the Gardnerville Ranchos Saturday to view decorated houses.

The parade was organized by The Grill Next Door.

Restaurant co-owner Jen Fredrickson said the idea for the house tour, came after the success of their Trunk or Treat event during Halloween.

“This is our second year doing it and it is expanding,” she said. “We just wanted to make another family event.”

Fifty houses throughout the Ranchos entered the contest, each unique to the homeowner.

“The entire Ranchos from the golf course to Sunshine and Rainbows Daycare has houses on display,” said Fredrickson. “It’s very worth going through and looking at all the houses.”

The homes will be on display through January but voting ends Dec. 23.

Winners of the houses will receive a prize and a random voter will be drawn for chance to win a gift certificate, said Fredrickson.

“Everyone really joined in and made it happen,” said Fredrickson. “We spearheaded it, but it’s the community that really came together and did it.”

Ballots are available at the Grill next Door, Jennifer West-Fredickson, Realtor at Coldwell Banker Select and Rhonda Moore at Country Financial.

Fredrickson said the event an attempt to further connect the community and help those in need.

They are collecting winter clothes for Sertoma, toys for the Toys for Tots and pet food for the Carson Valley Food Closet.

Fredrickson said donations can be dropped off at any of the participating sponsors.

“We want to thank everyone for coming together and making it happen,” said Fredrickson.

The Grill Next Door is located at 1281 Kimmerling Road, Gardnerville.

Ronda More Insurance is located at 1664 Highway 395 North, Minden.

Coldwell Banker Select is located at 1674 Highway 395 North Suite 100, Minden.