Fill the Sleigh returns to a square near you

Hope for Marshall County is hosting the 8^th Annual Fill the Sleigh event on Saturday, Nov. 9. The Madill Square will be filled to the brim with vendors, food trucks, carnival snacks and so much more in an attempt to fill the Christmas needs for children.

HFMC Executive Director Gwen Wilson said they have added a few events to the grand occasion.

“This year, they have added a BBQ Pitmaster cook off, cupcake wars, an antique car show and a petting zoo,” Wilson said.

Children will be able to enjoy a cupcake walk with prizes, bounce houses, face painting, a kid’s raffle and coloring contest. The Madill Library will present a puppet show, and book readings.

There will be cocoa stations around the square, along with candy canes and certificates for kids from local restaurants.

There will be free professional pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus from AFW photos. The radio station KMAD will live stream from the car show and the performances slotted for the big stage; C7, Reconciled and Tammy Dunegan. Be sure to bring your boots and lawn chairs.

The event will host two big raffles this year. Residents can buy raffle tickets for the chance to win a handmade quilt, a new dining room table or a gift card. The business raffle items were donated by local businesses.

Heroic Inner Kids will make a return and bring children’s favorite Superheroes and Disney characters. Elsa, Anna, Buzz Lightyear, Batman, Han Solo, the Grinch, and many more characters have made plans on joining the festivities. Be sure to have cameras on the ready.

Wilson said the entry fee to the event is $5 for an arm band, and the money goes to a good cause.

“All proceeds go to the HFMC wish list to provide Christmas for children, senior citizens and veterans who just need a hand up this year,” Wilson stated.

The new additions of events are not the only changes to the gala this year. Wilson approached the Board of Marshall County Commissioners and gained permission to switch up a few geographical items. Santa will be in the gazebo like he was in the past. He was originally moved because there was not a wheelchair accessible ramp to him. Wilson said they have access to a portable ramp and thought it would be a good idea to house Santa in the gazebo again.

They also decided to put the vendors needing access to electricity on the courthouse lawn and the non-electric vendors around the square.

Wilson said she appreciates the help from their advertising sponsor, State Farm agent Kyle Kennedy.