A Community that Shines: The Holiday Spirit of McKennan Park
The holiday season brings an air of cheer, and nowhere is that more evident than in the historic McKennan Park neighborhood. Residents are known for their generosity and community spirit, coming together to fluff a stunning 68 garlands in preparation for their festive décor. But humility and dedication didn’t stop there—these neighbors also raised an impressive $8,000 to replace the aging decorations that once adorned the light poles around McKennan Park and the picturesque boulevard on 21st Street.
A Fluffing Fiesta
The excitement began late last month, when residents gathered for a garland-fluffing event, showcasing their commitment to preserving the park’s charm. John Paulson, a longtime resident who first called McKennan Park home until he turned 20, understands the neighborhood’s unique camaraderie. Now, nearly four decades later, he has returned to live just three blocks from his childhood residence.
“It’s no surprise to me that the community came together so quickly,” Paulson commented. He emphasized the warmth and hospitality that are hallmarks of the neighborhood. “We recognize the importance of this park to people not just from our community but from the surrounding areas as well. There’s a volunteer spirit here that makes things happen.”
Founding the Friends of McKennan Park Neighborhood Association
In an effort to further solidify this community bond, Paulson was instrumental in founding the Friends of McKennan Park Neighborhood Association in 2014 and served as its first president. The decision to decorate the light poles with garlands was driven by a desire to enhance the already beautiful boulevard—an initiative that began modestly but blossomed into a cherished tradition.
“It was a way we could come together right away, to create something visually appealing,” he shared.
The Technicalities of Holiday Decorations
The ambitious plan included hanging lighted garlands on all the light poles in McKennan Park and along the boulevard—34 poles in total—calling for two 9-foot garlands per pole. Anne Mantz, co-president of the neighborhood association, noted the overwhelming generosity of the residents. “We were able to fundraise quite easily through a Facebook post and emails,” she explained. The enthusiasm crossed neighborhood borders; some donors even reached out from outside Sioux Falls, driven by nostalgia for the park that once held meaning for their families.
A Social Gathering and Community Bonding
This year, the city offered to handle the hanging of the garlands. Instead, the residents focused on the fun of unboxing and fluffing each one. “I was there, and it was really enjoyable,” Meyerink said. “We fluffed them in just two hours. Working together like this brings joy and purpose, and it fosters a sense of community.”
Meyerink, who moved to the McKennan Park neighborhood two years ago, notes the similarities with nearby All Saints, where she lived for a decade. Both neighborhoods boast beautiful, historic homes and mature trees, encouraging easy connections among neighbors. Walking past the garland-decorated light poles each day reminds her of the importance of neighborhood pride. Last year, she and her husband added their festive touches by decorating their home with eave lights, wreaths, and candles.
“I feel like we’re a Christmas card for the city, and we need to decorate,” she beamed, reflecting her passion for community spirit.
Deep Community Roots
Mantz joined the neighborhood community in 2017, also transitioning from All Saints. She emphasizes the joys of daily life in McKennan Park. “I walk my dog there every day. It’s lovely to see neighbors giving some extra attention by fluffing the garlands throughout the holiday season.”
The park itself holds a significant history, with Helen McKennan—an early pioneer—donating her house and 20 acres to Sioux Falls’ parks department in the early 1900s. This location became home to the department’s first greenhouses and is one of only two formal gardens in the city.
Acknowledging Park Caretakers
Both Paulson and Mantz expressed deep gratitude for the efforts of the park caretakers, particularly Sara Mundt and her team. “They do an extraordinary job,” Mantz said, crediting their commitment to maintaining the park’s beauty. Paulson echoed her sentiments, appreciating the relationships built with city staff who help ensure that the park remains a beloved gathering place for everyone.
Community Projects Beyond Decorations
The neighborhood association is involved in various projects beyond garland decorations. One significant effort during the 1940s included a floral nameplate reading “McKennan Park,” which the association revived and maintains during the summer months. Additionally, residents took the initiative to fund a flagpole and tree replacement, along with a historical project to showcase the park’s evolution.
The Magic of Lights
The unifying efforts around the new lighted garlands resonate with residents like Meyerink. As dusk falls and the lights illuminate the neighborhood, a sense of magic fills the air. “There’s something enchanting about these lights,” she said. “They symbolize our pride in the neighborhood and show that we’re happy to share this beauty with everyone in Sioux Falls. After all, who doesn’t appreciate a bit of extra light in the darkness?”
The garlands will twinkle on the poles until February or March, when neighbors will reconvene to take them down for storage. Matt and Joel Parker, local business owners, have provided space for that storage since the beginning, further solidifying the neighborhood’s spirit of collaboration.
In McKennan Park, the holiday season is not just about putting up decorations; it’s about community, history, and the spirit of togetherness that shines brightly through every garland and light.
