WIN group organizes Christmas Tree Walk

With a love for the holidays and family events, Monticello’s WIN group (Women in Networking) is hosting a free community event just in time for the Christmas season. 

The Monticello Christmas Tree Walk will be open to the public on Saturday, Dec. 14, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Jones County Youth Development Center (fairgrounds). 

Local businesses and organizations will have themed Christmas trees on display for all to enjoy. The public can vote for their favorite tree, and the winner will receive $100 toward the local charity of their choice. 

“We have grown friendships and have had the great opportunity for all of our businesses to network together,” said WIN leader Amanda Hackney. 

Each business that participates is asked to set up their tree on Friday, Dec. 13 between noon and 6 p.m. A $100 sponsorship to WIN covers the cost of display space for a 6- to 8-foot tree, the business name/logo at the base of the tree for identification, and the business logo in all event advertising. Hackney explained the $100 fee also helps cover the expenses for the event: advertising, rental of the Youth Development Center, and materials for the event. 

Aside from the tree walk, the public can enjoy hot cocoa and cookies/treats, participate in singing Christmas carols, have pictures taken with Santa Claus, and take part in horse-drawn carriage rides (courtesy of Lavern and Judy Meyer of Olin). The rides will take place in the parking lot near the YDC/Berndes Center, weather permitting. 

“We want this to be a fun-filled family activity,” urged Hackney. 

There will also be live Christmas music played throughout the Tree Walk. 

Hackney said this event will be open-house style. 

“People can come any time between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.,” she said. 

It’s not too late. Businesses can still register and pay the $100 fee to reserve a spot for a decorated tree. Sponsorships will be taken until the day of the event; the businesses will, however, miss out in the advertisements. 

“We would love for this to be a growing annual event,” said Hackney. 

Call Hackney at 563-542- 5959 to reserve your spot.