FORT LARAMIE – The Fort Laramie Community held its annual Shop Fort Laramie event on Saturday, December 7. Many local businesses participated, including Fort Laramie Frontier Trading Post, Country Grace, Haystack Hills Trading, Fort Laramie Bar & Grill, and Fort Laramie American Grill. 

Business owners reported that they saw many shoppers both from Fort Laramie plus a larger than expected number of shoppers from around Goshen County who had seen advertisements in Go Goshen Shop Local tote bags and passport program, on social media, or by word of mouth. 

Shoppers also supported the craft show at the Fort Laramie Community Center. Almost 20 artisans filled the center. Vendors offered Christmas décor and gifts, leather work, and tasty treats. The 4H club also held a bake sale, and Santa was also present to speak with children. 

The Fort Laramie Volunteer Fire Department was also out, holding a “Fill the Boot” fundraiser. A silent auction and donation jar was also available in support of Chuck Brooks, who had been scheduled to provide pony rides but who had a severe accident at the Gurnsey holiday parade just days before. $2,000 was raised over the weekend for Brooks, with more coming in from the Silent Auction and private donations this week. 

Through all the events, the weekend demonstrated Fort Laramie’s Christmas ethos. From supporting the small businesses that continue to provide services to Fort Laramie despite the struggles of operating in a rural area to the donations assisting organizations and individuals who are weaved into the fabric of the community, Fort Laramie continues to show the joy of the holidays through its sharing with and supporting its neighbors.