T

The Inaugural Sleigh Bell Trail at Tims Ford State Park has sent the Franklin County community buzzing as the main campground, located at 1200 Tims Ford Drive, was recently filled with different Christmas lights and decorations and a live nativity scene, offering a festive, drive-through attraction.

 The event is the first of its type to grace the community, and event goers have expressed excitement and enthusiasm for the new display opportunity.

The Sleigh Bell Trail, organized by Franklin County resident James Cantrell and Tims Ford State Park, featured a live nativity scene on the first two opening nights on Dec. 6-7, and the decorated campsites were available for viewing through Dec. 11.

The vision for the Sleigh Bell Trail was sparked by Cantrell, who, after visiting a state park in Huntsville, Alabama, said he was inspired to bring the same kind of holiday magic home.

Determined to create a festive tradition for his neighbors, Cantrell made it his mission to see a similar event come to life in his own community and decided to reach out to park management.

“It’s an idea of mine that has come to life,” he said. “I never dreamed we would have so many participants our first year.”

He said the park rangers backed him, making the event possible. He added that the site had plenty of space, and spectators could stay warm in their cars amid frigid evening temperatures.

Cantrell said he was pleased with the nearly 50 entries and the estimated 5,000 spectators who passed through the area to view the display.

“After people saw how beautiful it was, they said they wanted to do one next year,” Cantrell said, summing up his thoughts. “Thanks so much to the park and all the ones who decorated trees and (other items on display).

“Most importantly, thanks to all who came out to enjoy.”

Local and area businesses, community members and nonprofits came to the campsite to decorate their own space in their own unique, creative theme.

Trees, lights, tinsel, and decorative hay bales covered the campsites showcasing each participant’s special position in the community.  Almost 50 participants put their most festive foot forward, and countless Franklin County community members, along with some out-of-towners, filled the lane bumper-to-bumper to enjoy the displays and show their support. 

As families drove through the glowing campsites, taking time to pause at the live nativity, the first annual Sleigh Bell Trail was already weaving itself into the fabric of Franklin County’s holiday traditions.

Organizers said they hope this event will return year after year, bringing neighbors together to celebrate the season in light, purpose, and story.

Tims Ford State Park Manager Shawn Settle and interim Park Ranger Kaylee Robinson showed enthusiasm to be backing the event, stating they are happy and excited to be a part of what will hopefully become a community tradition.

“Mr. Cantrell has been a really big contributor to this,” Robinson said before the 2025 Sleigh Bell Trail had finished its initial run. “We’re looking forward to a pretty big turnout, hopefully.

“We want people to come out, and we want to give kids a memory and hopefully maybe a tradition that we can start here at Tims Ford with the community, showcasing all of the businesses and just the community involvement and giving people something fun to do during the Christmas holidays.”