Some traditions never change. We were joyfully reminded of that with the annual Madison Christmas Committee parade and the decorating of downtown. The town workers, along with local stores, are kicking off the holiday season with window paintings and putting up wreaths. Other favorites include the “Santa House” and “Train Cars” displayed across from Hartley Dodge for local children to visit.

The Toto family is the driving force. “It’s really a year-round effort, but my mom, the committee, we start to ramp up in August and September in terms of people calling the bands, getting the meetings together, that kind of thing,” said Toto III. Madison’s yearly holiday parade is a change for local businesses and organizations to walk down main street for everyone to see! Taking place every Black Friday, this is the 43rd year! 

The town hosts many other special holiday events. “Find Rosie the Reindeer”

is a  free event that started one week ago on the 25th of November and ends on December 12th. Over 40 Chamber-member stores in Madison work together to make this possible. The goal of this event is to find as many Rosie’s across the stores in town. TapIntoMadison says that “The Grand Prize Winner will receive a $100 Madison Chamber Gift Check, 2nd and 3rd place winners will each receive a $50 Madison Chamber Gift Check.” To participate, kids can pick up a card at Tons of Toys or Madison Pharmacy and start hunting. Participating businesses are listed on the card. Once kids find Rosie they can collect a stamp or signature from a store employee. Completed cards can be returned to Tons of Toys or Madison Pharmacy where a special prize can be collected.

Beyond these festive events, Madison undergoes charitable endeavors as well. The biggest charitable event is the MECF. The Madison Eagle Christmas Fund was founded 50 years ago by Barbara Valk and Louise Easton. They donate gift cards and clothes to families in need so that they are able to have a happy holiday. This year is the foundation’s 50th year and their goal is to raise $50,000. The MECF gives families gift cards for food stores, toy stores, and other downtown shops, as well as winter clothes to keep them warm. These options that families are able to choose from also support the town’s local businesses, which is a win for everyone! If you want to help support them, and help bring a Happy Holiday to everyone in Madison, a link to their Venmo is here: https://account.venmo.com/u/MECFGiving

Living in Madison is amazing, especially during this, the most wonderful time of the year. There are so many community members who embrace the spirit of giving and spread joy all throughout the town. Let’s hope these wonderful traditions never change.