Saline County homes add to sparkle of season

It isn't every day you get a candy cane from an elf, even during the Christmas season. On Wednesday, visitors to "Candy Payne Lane," otherwise known as the home of Brad and Sandy Payne of Eldorado, were treated to a Yuletide treat by some of the Paynes' friends, dressed as elves and other Christmas characters.

Lisa Knight, along with her nieces Gracie Knight, who portrayed Cindy Lou Who, and Sarah Pittman as well as friend Peggy Endicott, were on hand to spread some Christmas cheer.

"We just wanted to help build the sense of community during the holidays," Knight said. "It's been a little slower tonight, but Monday night we were out here and stayed pretty busy."

On Monday, the group had an assortment of 46 treat bags and handed out 45, Knight said. The group of Christmas characters plans to hand out goodies Saturday evening as well.

Candy Payne Lane at 1285 Goshen Trail Road has been a holiday highlight in Eldorado for a number of years.

"There's a lot of work that goes into it," Payne said. "It takes about a week to set up. It takes one whole day just to run the cords."

But, the results are worth it, he said. "It's just something we enjoy doing this time of year."

Another nearby Christmas display also entertains Eldorado. At 650 Old Broughton Road, the home of Michael McGuire offers a unique experience.

The entire display features a wide assortment of lighted Christmas trees, all decorations created by hand, McGuire said. He said over the years, he and his family would make a few new lighted trees each year and expand the display.

Now, the lane to the home is lined with the custom trees and tied to motion sensors, illuminating them as passersby drive up the lane.

McGuire and Payne tied for first-place honors in the 2020 Saline County Tourism Board's Holiday Display Contest. Both are in this year's contest as well, in addition to other homes from across the county.

A map of all homes in the contest may be found at the Saline County Holiday Display Contest Facebook page.

Winners of this year's contest will be announced soon. High winds on Wednesday prevented some homeowners from having displays with inflatable components illuminated.