DIXFIELD – The seventh annual Blessing of the Sleds will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at Welch’s Campground.

The Poodunck Snowmobile Club of Dixfield and the Mexico Trailblazers Snowmobile Club cosponsor the annual event. The blessing began with the Mexico Trailblazers, and the Poodunck club became involved three years ago.

“There’re quite a few people that show up for it. This is our third year. Mexico has been doing it by themselves for several years,” said David Berry of Dixfield, a member of the Poodunck Snowmobile Club.

There will be food and games for people of all ages. At 1 p.m., the Rev. Al Jacques, of St. Anthanasius and St. John Catholic Church of Rumford, will bless the sleds.

Sally Campbell, secretary of the Mexico Trailblazers, explained that one of their members got the idea from a blessing of motorcycles he saw in New Hampshire.

The event has grown over the years.

“Last year we had a big crowd, but they didn’t stay because of the cold. It was below zero. A couple of years ago, we had 200 to 300 people. This year the weather is supposed to be good, and we’re expecting a big turnout,” Campbell said.

“It’s something that we’ve all worked real hard on. Each year we’ve had more donations,” she said.

There is a heated building at Welch’s Campground where people can warm up and enjoy a meal. Hamburgers, hot dogs, Italian sausages, fries, sodas and homemade pastries will be for sale.

Campbell said a 50/50 drawing and a raffle are planned as fund-raisers.

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