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GATESVILLE – The holiday season is in full swing with the official opening of the fourth annual ”Light Up the Millpond” at Merchants Millpond State Park.

This cherished event, held on Friday and Saturday evenings through Dec. 21, with an extra viewing nights on Dec. 22-23, is a magical celebration of community spirit and holiday cheer.

The drive-through event is the work of the Gates County Community Events Committee and The Friends of Merchants Millpond. It is located in the area of the Millpond’s Visitors Center just off Mill Pond Road.

“As visitors drive through our festive light displays, created by families, schools, and local organizations, and businesses, we love to add an extra touch of joy by handing out candy canes to all our guests and even special treats for furry companions,” said Brian Silvers, President of the Gates County Community Events Committee. “Seeing children’s faces light up as they receive their candy canes, and some adults too, reminds us why we do this. It’s these small moments of joy that make this season so meaningful.”

Silvers issued a special thank you to Santa, who will be visiting the event this year thanks to Colby Eure.

Admission is free, but donations to the Friends of Merchants Millpond are always appreciated and help them continue these events and other events throughout the year.

“On behalf of the Gates County Community Events Committee, and The Friends of Merchants Millpond, we want to thank the countless volunteers and contributors who make this event possible,” Silvers remarked. “Their dedication helps turn a simple evening drive into a heartwarming holiday tradition. As well as the staff at the park that play a huge behind the scenes role of keeping up with all the displays.

“I encourage everyone to come and experience “Light Up the Millpond”. Whether it’s the twinkling lights, the smiling faces, or a happy wagging tail, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Warm holiday wishes to all,” Silvers concluded.

Local businesses, families, groups and organizations responsible for the displays at this year’s “Light Up the Millpond” includes the following:

Meade Tax Service

Dogwood Darlings

Central Middle School Kindness Club

Austin Family

Berry Personalized Primary Care

Hall Ruritan Club

Batter Up Bakery

Southern Bank Gatesville

Haven Ark Training

Sawyers Design

Gates Ruritans

Warwick Baptist Church

Gatesville Masonic Lodge

Eure Christian Church

Girl Scout Troop 548

Miller Farms

Cline Family

Farm Bureau Gatesville

Sweet Shrub Farm

M & M Paws

Gates Lions Club

T.S. Cooper PTA

Sunbury Ruritans

Sunbury Fire Dept.

Eure Fire Dept.

Gates County Rescue & EMS

Gatesville PTA

Buckland PTA

The Way Church

Gates County Chamber of Commerce

ROTC

Sugar Shack