Second annual Christmas at the Mill

“It was really all about the kids.”

That’s what Matt Petsinger said about “Christmas Time at the Mill” held Saturday, December 10.

The event was begun a year ago by American Family Insurance in Waseca as “Pictures with Santa.” It grew into more of a day for children and their families to enjoy the spirit of Christmas.

“Really what we wanted for this event was to have a spot for the kids to come, enjoy the day, and not have it be expensive for the families,” Petsinger shared. “That’s why we changed the name to ‘Christmas Time at the Mill.’”

There was plenty for the kids to do: take pictures with Santa and the Grinch, decorate cookies, take family photos with three different backgrounds, color, play giant “Connect Four” and “Jenga” games, visit bounce houses, and enjoy other games. 

“Don’t forget about Olaf!” Petsinger exclaimed. “We think that was a big draw this year. We were the only ones to get Olaf!” 

In addition to all the fun games the children had to play, the Petsinger Agency continued a tradition it started last year–giving toys to all the children who had their pictures taken with Santa. About 270 kids showed up to the event, nearly quadruple the 70 that took part last year.

“We sadly did run out of toys,” Petsinger admitted. “We had about 15 to 20 kids who didn’t get a toy, and for that we apologize. Going from 70 last year to 270 was unexpected. It was a wonderful thing.”

Lucia’s Cocina was at the event providing food. Free hot chocolate and cookies were also available. For musical entertainment, the Waseca High School choir and TEAM Academy’s Junior High band and choir performed classic Christmas carols and songs. Rock and roll locals Los Tequileros took the stage later in the evening. The Waseca County Neighborhood Services were also present at the event.

It was such a successful time that Petsinger can’t wait to do it all again. “Los T wants to come back next year,” he said. “We might change the time a little bit and do two separate events with more of a break between them. We’ll have the kids’ events for most of the day and have Los T perform in the afternoon.”

Whatever plans are formed for the 2023 event, one thing will remain the same. “We want to keep it a great day for the family,” Petsinger claimed. “The Mill is a great place for us to do this.”

He then concluded. “Christmas is a time for giving. This event is an opportunity for us to give back to Waseca.”