The sights and sounds of the holiday season come running into Washington one week from today when the square hosts the annual Jingle Bell 5K Fun Run. Saturday, participants are invited to take part in a one mile walk or run around the square or a 5K course that weaves through Washington’s streets including downtown and Sunset Park, beginning at Jps 207 on Main Street. Cost is $25 for those 10 and older, $10 for those under 10. Early registration participants will receive jingle bells and a t-shirt. Pets are welcome and encouraged, as are costumes, themes and a good time. Registration information is available on the event’s Facebook page and can also be done the morning of the race at Jps 207 beginning at 8a.m. Awards and prizes will follow inside. Event organizer, Washington boys track and field coach Steve Roth, talked with KCII News about putting the run together, sponsors that help make the event possible, where the proceeds go, and what he looks forward to each year. “We wanted to do something for the community. Being a track guy, I thought it would be a great idea. As you know we’re festive. All of the decorations at my house. We love the animals that do it. We have lots and lots of prizes. Hy-Vee has given me four, $25 gift certificates, those usually go to the best costumes, which is great. Brown’s Shoes donated a pair of shoes which is outstanding. The people that sponsor me, I go to the restaurants and establishments and get gift certificates to give away. The Y has graciously given us 40 day passes. There’s a lot of people involved in it. We don’t make a lot of money off the runners, we make it off our sponsors, and our sponsors are fantastic. We give our money to the Washington Chamber Tour of Homes, Paws and More Animal Shelter, and my track kids wanted new uniform tops. We always have some fantastic costumes. We encourage animals. Dress them up and bring them too! Afterward we have a little celebration at JPs. We really enjoy it!”
This event is part of Main Street Washington’s Showcasing Nights of Washington (SNOW) Blitz series Saturday, November 26th that includes Small business Saturday specials with local businesses, Breakfast with Santa from 8-10a.m. At the Washington United Presbyterian Church, the Reason For the Season Concert at 1p.m. At the Washington High School Auditorium, the live radio play at the Washington Library and heard live on AM and FM KCII at 5p.m. Concluding with the Lighting Ceremony on the Square and Holiday Lighted Parade at 6p.m. The KCII Big Red Radio will also be live at the Jingle Bell Run Saturday morning and the Lighted Parade Saturday night. Find out more during the Halcyon House Washington Page this week as we talk with new Main Street Washington Director Samantha Meyer.