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By JOYANNA LOVE/ Managing Editor

Maplesville’s Christmas celebration is returning on Dec. 5.

Old Fashioned Christmas held on Main Street had been canceled last year during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Organizers Christine Epperson and Karen Ford are excited about the return of the event and making it bigger than previous years.

“This is not just for the Maplesville area,” Ford said. “We invite everyone … We encourage everyone to attend.”

Epperson said she enjoys seeing “all of the people coming to town and just the look and smile on their face when they see everything.”

“The enjoyment on the kids’ faces” is always a highlight for Ford.

New for this year, there will be a Trail of Trees at the Maplesville Methodist Church garden.

Ford said the trees will begin going up on Nov. 27, 9-11 a.m.  and finish on Dec. 18, 1-4 p.m.

Those interested in contributing a tree can contact Ford at 334-518-9319 or Epperson at 334-259-4188.

“We are trying to add something different to it (Old Fashioned Christmas) every year,” Epperson said.

There are several trees dedicated to the memory of family members that have passed away in addition to other festive trees.

Santa Claus will arrive at 3:30 p.m., and the town’s Christmas tree will be lit at 5 p.m.

Old Fashioned Christmas is a free event, and is open to anyone who wants to come to have a booth and give away Christmas cheer or host an activity. Spots for this are on a first come, first serve basis. Those interested can contact the organizers for more information.

Epperson said there will also be 10 vendors selling items for those looking for a unique Christmas present. Some of the vendors that have confirmed will be selling boutique items, candles, homemade teddy bears, wood working, pet items and children’s accessories.  These spots are assigned, and there are only two spots left.

Ford said free food and a surprise from Valle Grande Mexican Restaurant will also be a part of the festivities.

Local music groups and singers will add to the holiday spirit of the event.

Festive photo opportunities, horse and buggy rides and the children’s area with inflatables and gaming centers will be set up this year as well.