A Merry Prairie Christmas-- A Fundraiser for a Thomas County Staple!

As the holiday season kicks into full swing, there’s no better time to shine a spotlight on the Prairie Museum of Art & History in Colby, Kansas — and especially on their festive fundraiser, Merry Prairie Christmas. I recently sat down with Executive Director Jenny Linden and Education Director Amber McMurray (via the good-morning giggles and holiday ad warm-up at NWKS Radio!) to learn what this institution means to the community and how you can get involved in this year’s celebration.

A Community Anchor on the High Plains

Since its founding (via the Thomas County Historical Society), the Prairie Museum has served as a cultural and educational hub for Thomas County and the broader Northwest Kansas region. (Prairie Museum of Art & History)

Jenny and Amber emphasized: “It’s a huge asset for the community.” Travelers arrive from across the state—and even the world—to explore the museum’s holdings.

From the indoor galleries showcasing the vast Kuska Collection (dolls, ceramics, clothing, toys, tools, you name it) to the outdoor campus featuring a sod house, one-room schoolhouse, 1930s farmstead, and the iconic Cooper Barn (the largest barn in Kansas!). (Travel Kansas)

Beyond being a “place to look,” the museum actively provides educational opportunities—such as their Food for Thought lecture series (which began in October and runs through March) and other programs. Jenny: “It’s a great place to come and learn … and enjoy yourself.”

Merry Prairie Christmas: A Holiday Tradition

Now, onto the fun stuff. Merry Prairie Christmas is the museum’s big annual online auction fundraiser—but with a community twist.

Here are the highlights based on their chat with NWKS Radio :

• What is it? Merry Prairie Christmas is an online auction of wonderful donations from the community: holiday decorations, outdoor stays, gift certificates, even a hot water heater! Amber noted: “It’s community supported and community led … full chuk full of holiday decorations… a little bit of everything for everyone.”

• Donations: If you have items you’d like to donate, the deadline is November 18. Jenny mentioned they’re receiving lots of quilters bringing Christmas quilt runners, tree skirts, etc.

• When & how to bid: The auction opens November 20 at 10 a.m. and runs through December 4. You can bid online via a link on the Prairie Museum’s website or through the Charity Auction BIDPerfect platform.

• Visit in person: The museum invites bidders and browsers to come in person and see the items set up in the main gallery. The volunteers have done a beautiful job lighting and styling the display. The physical view adds to the experience—and it’s their biggest fundraiser of the year.

Why It Matters

There are so many reasons why this event and the museum itself resonate:

• Support local heritage: By bidding in Merry Prairie Christmas, you’re not just buying a gift—you’re supporting a piece of Thomas County history, a museum that preserves the story of the High Plains and contributes to community life.

• Unique items & experience: Many of the items are one-of-a-kind, donated by community members. It’s a chance to find something special, holiday-themed, and to do your shopping locally.

• Community connection: The museum is a gathering place, a learning center, and a showcase for the region. Jenny referred to it as “a wonderful place to… be part of history.”

• Fundraising for mission: Because it’s their biggest fundraiser, every bid helps the museum continue offering exhibits, educational programming, and maintaining its campus.

A Few Tips Before You Bid

• Check out the museum hours: From November to March, the museum is closed Mondays; open Tuesday–Friday 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Saturday & Sunday 1 p.m.–5 p.m. (Prairie Museum of Art & History)

• Preview in person if you can: Heading in to view the items in real life can help you get a feel for what’s available and maybe spark ideas.

• Look for the donation deadline: November 18 is your cutoff if you have items you want to donate.

• Set a budget: Online auctions can ramp up quickly—there’s joy in bidding, but also in knowing your spending limit.

• Encourage friends & family: Since it’s online, you can share the link with folks out of town who might enjoy bidding and supporting the museum too.

Final Thoughts

This holiday season, the Prairie Museum of Art & History offers more than a festive event—it offers a way to connect with community, heritage, and local celebration all at once. Whether you’re browsing the galleries, viewing the outdoor pioneer structures, or participating in Merry Prairie Christmas, you’re contributing to something meaningful.

So mark November 20 on your calendar at 10 a.m. to start bidding—and spread the word. Shop locally, bid socially, and wrap your holiday giving around history, art and heart.

Thanks to Jenny Linden and Amber McMurray for their time, their energy, and their giggles during the ad recording at NWKS Radio!