Each Christmas season, the citizens of Americus and the surrounding areas are invited to the campus of Perry Wellness Center and Rudy’s Happy Patch Market for an evening of holiday fellowship. Next Thursday, December 19, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., the tradition will continue.

Live music, Christmas lights, hot chocolate and cider, bags of fruit, and Santa himself will make the evening festive for all. Costumed characters from the award-winning Mickey’s Magic Christmas float, including Mickey and Minnie Mouse, will also be there to greet fans, young and old. Wisk 98.7 will be on campus to broadcast a live remote broadcast.

But amid the spirit of celebration, the annual event also calls attention to the reality of seasonal depression for many individuals. It also provides a message of hope and support to a united community.

“This annual event is a time for celebration of the birth of Christ and a renewed beginning for many peers,” explains Perry Wellness Center founder and CEO Stuart Perry. “We work hard to help peers and staff strengthen their faith, and this event shows our growing community how we work.”

A large community turn-out is expected. No worries about bad weather – there’s plenty of space in the market and cafeteria for escaping the elements! To ready the campus for expected guests, Christmas decorations continue to be placed, strung, or lighted. In the photo above, staff leader Phyllis Smith and peer Doris Stafford hang colorful balls on one of several Christmas trees on display.