MADISON, MS (Mississippi News Now) -
Christmas is more than two months away but there was a slight chill in the air Monday in Madison. A 7200 square foot ice rink is coming to town , for the first of its kind holiday event.
The President and CEO of Baptist Health Systems, Madison City officials and local businesses are breaking the ice.
"Are yall cold? I think yall brought a little sleet," said Madison Mayor, Mary Hawkins-Butler.
"Christmas on ice is a fantastic event that will bring people from all over to Madison and the Madison campus here at Baptist to celebrate Christ and the Christian healing ministry," Mark Slyter, President and CEO of Baptist Health Systems said.
In just a few weeks instead of rain there will be lots of ice here. An open field will be transformed into a winter wonderland. The director says it truly will be one of the coolest events in the south.
"We've got 51 days starting November 17, a 7200 square foot ice rink, but we know in the south our ankles hurt after 20 minutes on the ice, so we've got a 125 foot long ice slide. We've got the Trustmark Stage, 51 concerts in 51 nights, church choirs, school choirs, and then we've got the Pepsi Pavilion where people can have corporate parties, birthday parties. Its gonna be a blast," said Steve Hutton, Director of Christmas On Ice.
In addition to ice skating, there will be a cafe, and families can pick out their Christmas tree. There will also be a Christmas story trail.
"And picture that tradition of a mom and dad being able to tell their kids the Christmas story," Hutton said.
Organizers say based on their research they expect between 45 and 60 thousand people to visit Christmas On Ice at the Baptist Madison Campus. There has not been an ice rink in this area since 2008.
For more information go to www.christmasonice.com. To book a party or have your church or school perform on stage, contact the Christmas On Ice Hotline at (601) 500-5970.
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