Hangar Holiday welcomes more than 14,000

  • Published
  • By Petra Smith
  • Sheppard Officers' Spouses' Club
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Hangar 1045 was bursting at the seams Nov. 14-15 as more than 14,000 people rang in the Christmas spirit with Hangar Holiday 2009.

"We are overjoyed with the success of this year's Hangar Holiday and are grateful for the phenomenal community support," said Audrey Pounds, Hangar Holiday 2009 chairperson. "We were thrilled to offer an array of unique vendors and festive entertainment as we ring in the Christmas spirit for an exceptional cause - to offer scholarships to America's future."

With harmonious Christmas music by the Special Activities Team Choir, a complete scene from Santa's workshop and more than 275 unique vendors, there was something for everyone to enjoy.

"I have attended every Hangar Holiday - I find something new every year," Diana Self said. "This is the event that gets me into the Christmas spirit."

Hangar Holiday vendors created a magical scene with unique jewelry, crafts, collectibles, and clothing, offering shoppers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to find that special gift for loved ones.

As community members enjoyed food, shopping and friends, the SAT Choir's music filled the hangar with their lively rendition of popular Christmas carols.

"We really enjoy singing Christmas songs," said Airmen Stover, Major of the Airmen Choir. "It's a great opportunity for the choir to get out there and showcase the talent."
Santa and his elves with their Christmas workshop brought smiles to the faces of hundreds of children who posed for pictures with Jolly Saint Nick.

"The ladies who organize Hangar Holiday are wonderful," said second-year vendor Kim Ivy. "We will definitely be back."

Dana Mihaly, president of the Sheppard Officers' Spouses' Club, said the club is very proud to host the annual event.

"Our vendor and shopper numbers continue to grow, making Hangar Holiday one of the largest events in Texoma," she said. "It's a great way to kick off the holiday season."

Proceeds from the event will be donated to the SOSC scholarship program for promising military dependents pursuing a college education.

Hangar Holiday began in 1986 with 50 vendors. Over the years, the event has expanded to occupy the largest hangar at Sheppard.

For more information, please visit the Hangar Holiday website at www.hangarholiday.org.