by Julianna Bonnett
Just in time for the Christmas season, local residents got into the holiday spirit on Saturday morning by participating in the annual Family Christmas Hayride in Gesto.
Hosted from Colchester North Public School, local families enjoyed a hayride, along with a lunch, a chance to meet Santa, and activities that celebrated the Christmas season.
One of the organizers, Lou Anne Mailloux, said the annual hayride is a great way to get the community together to celebrate the holidays.
“We love seeing people from all walks of life come together for the event,” Mailloux said. “Not only do people from our community come out, but so many from Essex, Harrow, and even Windsor come out to enjoy what we’re offering.”
According to Mailloux, their annual Christmas hayride has been and annual event for 55-years.
“It’s been a community event for a lot longer than most people know,” Mailloux said. “It’s been happening for over 55-years, they just kept doing it because they noticed how many people really enjoyed it and of course it brings a smile to every kid’s face.”
Santa Claus was on site to help keep the Christmas spirit alive, along with OPP officers and firefighters who helped each resident get onto the trailers, safely and soundly.
“I bring my grandchildren to it every year because it really has become a tradition for us,” said another event organizer, Tina McAgy. “We’re lucky to have so much support from the community and local sponsors, who want to celebrate the Christmas spirit, but also help donate toys to those children in need.”
