The Westboro Mart has an annual holiday event called the “Plaza Glow,” or “Glow Up,” during which it lights up the plaza with holiday cheer and a multitude of activities to raise money for the Kansas Children’s Service League.

The event took place Friday, November 2nd, from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m.; the lighting ceremony began at 6:20 pm. Besides the fantastic lighting display, there were several family-friendly activities to take part in. Some of the best local food trucks were there, children posed for photos with Santa, free horse-drawn carriage rides took place, and feature businesses had exclusive offers just for the event. Some of these businesses included ASH Boutique, Beauchamp’s Art Gallery, Patio Pool & Fireside and Porterfield’s Flowers & Gifts. 

Brian Sazo, a senior Spanish major is a regular attendee of the annual event.

“This holiday event is something that I have been going to for a couple of years. The light show is amazing, as well as the different businesses do a great job of being friendly and make you feel good about helping. The activities there are always fun, and the fact that they donate is a great thing for children in need,” Sazo said.

Each featured business presented a photo gallery of children in need to help bring awareness to their cause. Visitors could donate items to the businesses themselves, or they could donate money by cash or check. All of the funds went toward KCSL, an agency that helps provide foster care and permanent homes for children in abusive or neglectful situations. They also work with orphanages to help place children, as they thrive better in homes with families than in group housing.

KCSL’s mission is important to people all over Kansas, and it is a large part of why locals take part int his event every year.

“I think it is a great idea, the raising of funds is something that should happen more often, since there are so many people, elderly and children, who are in need of assistance, whether it be money, clothes or food. The light show isn’t bad either, but more of an added bonus,” Angela Gray, sophomore English education major.