VALLEY — The Christmas Merry Go Round is indisputably one of the most cherished traditions in the Greater Valley Area, and Valley Parks and Recreation is continuing to add to its legacy. Moved from its original date of last weekend due to rain, the second annual Sleigh the Course 5K run and gingerbread house event will take place on Saturday, Dec. 15.

Sleigh the Course will stretch down the Chattahoochee Valley Railroad Trail from the farmer’s market pavilion to Valley High School, with participants stopping at the halfway point to turn around and run back. Parks and Recreation Director Laurie Blount said that the 5K should be considered by everyone interested, not just those eager to compete.

“We don’t care, run or walk,” she said. “I know that we have walkers coming along with the runners so if you are intimidated that it’s a competitive run, it’s not.”

The run was initially set for last weekend but was moved due to rain. According to the National Weather Service, this Saturday looks to be a lot brighter and warmer, with the majority of rain coming down Friday night.

Those who want to participate can register today or tomorrow before the race. Registration is $20 for the 5K with all proceeds going back to the city’s Merry Go Round. The race will begin at 9 a.m. EST.

For those who would rather participate in a less-physical activity, the Gingerbread house event will take place from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the Jackson Heating and Air tent adjacent to the Merry Go Round. For $5 a house, participants of all ages will get a pre-built gingerbread house and sweet treats to deck the cookie halls.

“They’ll get a variety of candies, cereals, pretzels and all kinds of things to help decorate their gingerbread houses,” Blount said.

Like the 5K, the proceeds from this event will go back to the Merry Go Round. Blount said that Saturday’s two offerings are all part of the effort to spread Christmas cheer along with the holiday staple.

“These events are just supposed to be a lot of fun for the community,” she said. “The Merry Go Round is so ingrained in this area that we are trying to add more activities to it.”

Those requiring more information about the events or registration can call (334) 756-5290.