Let’s start with what’s new this year. The small children can write their letters to Santa, take them to the Library, and send them via special mailbox that Santa set up. They will place the letter inside the mailbox, close the lid and raise the flag, and just like that, their letters will magically be sent to Santa.

Also new this year is the Christmas Costume Contest. Costumes must be relatable to Christmas or be recognized as a character from a Christmas movie to be considered for the Prize. The adult’s Grand Prize is sponsored by Agri-Prairie and is $500. Jr. High and High School Students Costume Contest is sponsored by the Grocery Store and Hair I Am and is worth $200. Grade School students can join in the fun and win $50 from the Big Sandy Mountaineer. You can wear your costume all day if you desire, but the judging will be done at 6:00 at the Big Sandy City Hall. The winners will be announced during the Button Draw and Sled Auctions.

Never made a float before? Why not this year. It could be a business float, a family float, or an organization float. It doesn’t have to be elaborate. Just a small float to celebrate the season and our community. The Christmas Stroll Parade of Lights is also changing how the awards will be given. This year there will be a 1st place which will win $250, 2nd place win $150, and 3rd place will be $100. However, the Mint will continue to sponsor the People Choice Award to the people’s favorite float win $100. It just needs to have something to do with this year’s theme, “Merry Grinchmas”. Dave Louvar is in charge of the Parade of lights. If the weather is just bitter cold, check with Tracy Schuster, Dave Louvar, or Marlys Myers.

Like last year there will be the Cocktail Throwdown during the stroll. To vote, you have to get a passport from one of the local bars, try all the drinks, and get your passport stamped. You have to try all the drinks before you vote. Your vote will not count unless your passport is stamped at all three bars.

It is hoped that Christmas lights will be up around town, and everyone can drive around to see all the homes. Rotary is sponsoring the Christmas lights contest and will be judging those lights on Dec 16th. Downtown businesses are encouraged to decorate, as well during Friday’s , Griswold Party.

Imagine everyone involved with this year’s Christmas Stroll Event. What a celebration!