Families, neighbors and businesses will gather for the annual Holly Day celebration from 6 to 8:30 p.m., Friday Dec. 7th.

The year’s event, sponsored by the Marathon Area Business Association, will take place at Vanderloop Equipment's Building and parking lot (at the corner of 4th and Walnut, one block west of Main Street).

The majority of Holly Day activities will be held outside, so please dress appropriately!

The evening will get under way at 6 p.m. with the lighting of Main Street lights and the town Christmas tree. Everyone is welcome to enjoy a free Chili Supper. Throughout the evening, we will also be serving hot dogs, warm beverages and tempting treats.

Participants can sing along to traditional carols and enjoy holiday music while meeting up with friends and neighbors.

Children can also get their pictures taken with Santa and Mrs. Claus, as well as meet some special guests stopping by from Disney. Fireworks, beginning at 8 p.m., at Veterans Memorial Park on 4th Street will close the evening.

Leading up to the event, those interested in decorating the town tree are encouraged to make or buy their own weather-resistant decorations.

The MABA is seeking participants for the 2nd annual Holly Day Chili Cookoff Contest. Contact the MABA by Dec 1st to reserve your spot in the contest. Call 443-2929 or email: info@mabassoc.net Participants must bring your own roaster filled with chili and a serving spoon. You will be asked to serve your chili to attendees. (Power will be provided.) Tables will be set up inside the Vanderloop building (one block west of Main Street). Plan to be set up by 5:30 p.m. on Dec 7th. The contest will be judged by a 3-person panel of chili afficianodos pre-selected by the MABA. First, second and third prizes will be awarded to the winners.

 

Attention bakers, the MABA is hosting the 2nd annual Holly Day Gingerbread House Contest. Participants should plan to bring your gingerbread masterpiece by 5:30 p.m. on Dec 7th. Tables will be set up inside the Vanderloop building (one block west of Main Street). Please have your name and contact information included with your entry. The contest will be judged by a 3-person panel of baking specialists pre-selected by the MABA. First, second and third prizes will be awarded to the winners.

Show off your Christmas spirit by decorating a truck or vehicle for the Holly Day celebration. Decorated vehicles will be lined up by 5:30 p.m. on Dec 7th in the Vanderloop parking lot. Each vehicle with holiday lights must have it’s own generator. Contact MABA if your company or organization is interested in hosting a vehicle for display.