By Macy Reeves for the FCT

Holly Day is a festive event where children and their parents join in celebrating the Christmas season. This year’s event was held Dec. 5 at the A.W. Todd Center.

When families arrived, they had the option of getting food and drinks, which of course included a gingerbread house that the children could make and decorate themselves. They could also partake in games, such as bingo or Snowball Toss. Along with games, there was also a story-reading area, where Chamber of Commerce Junior Leaders read holiday classics. After partaking in fun activities, the kids wrote letters to Santa, later to give them in person before having their picture taken with him.

“I liked building the gingerbread house,” said Dylan Morgan, who wants a dinosaur for Christmas.

“My favorite part was making gingerbread houses. I also came to hear my cousin, Kyra Greenhill, sing,” said Hannah McCalpin, who wants dominoes and a Grace Thomas doll for Christmas.

Not only did the children like the activities, but parents also enjoyed the event and what all it meant for their kids.

“They love to see the presents and Christmas lights,” said Renee Sanderson, a grandmother who took her grandchildren to the event.

The Chamber of Commerce sold its keepsake ornaments as well as Christmas cards designed by Franklin County students. Cards were designed as part of a competition among the students, sponsored by the Chamber. Winners were:

– In the third grade: first place, Maverick McKenzie from Red Bay; second place, Meleeha Weaver from Red Bay; third place, Kylee Beard from Russellville; and honorable mention, Trace Duboise from East Franklin.

– In the fourth grade: first place, Jerica Peppers from Russellville; second place, Aaliyah Prince from Russellville; third place, Renea Berry from Russellville; and honorable mention, Stella Hill from Russellville.

– Director’s Choice Winners: first place, Lilly Lovelace from Russellville; honorable mention, Braden Douthit from Phil Campbell; honorable mention, Ellie Hays from Belgreen; and honorable mention, Abigail Bell from East Franklin.

“Holly Day has been fabulous, and the artwork is amazing. I’m so proud of them. Kudos for Franklin County for doing it and recognizing the arts,” said Jessica Peppers, a local artist who brought her children to enjoy the event.

Gingerbread house creating (Isaac Duboise)

Entertainment at Holly Day was provided by Love 2 Sing Studio. Vocal students at the studio performed Christmas classics.

“It’s just being able to spread Christmas spirit. My students love events like this because they can share their Christmas spirit with more people than just their family,” said Tara Greenhill of Love 2 Sing Studio.

“My favorite part of Holly Day was seeing the kids’ faces when they see Santa and watching them build gingerbread houses – seeing the fun they’re having,” said Cassie Medley, chamber director.