In less than two weeks, a portion of Vicksburg will be transformed into the race route for the Ninth annual Chill in the Hills 10-K run, 5-K walk and 1-mile fun run.

In an effort to help encourage the participants as they race to the finish line, yard signs will be available for those homeowners who live along the route.

“We want everyone to participate in the run, but if you can’t, we want you to get out in your yard and cheer,” said co-owner of Martin’s at Midtown, Lisa Martin.

Last year as part of their sponsorship for the Chill in the Hills event, which is a fundraiser for the Grace Christian Counseling Center, Martin said they purchased signs for homeowners to place in their yards.

Those same signs will be used again this year.

“For a $10 contribution, the race committee will place a sign in your yard the Sunday before the race and remove it Saturday following the race,” she said.

Chill in the Hills is set to begin at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 14, at the corner of Belmont and Cherry streets. The race is a Mississippi Track Club Grand Prix race.

In addition to the yard signs serving as inspiration to the racers, Martin said they would also let participants know they are on the race route.

Signs are limited and available by reservation only.

Checks can be mailed to Grace Christian Counseling Center, 1414 Cherry St., Vicksburg, MS 39180 or dropped off at Martin’s at Midtown, 1101 Belmont St.

Martin said she is hoping this will serve as one more way the community can get involved.

“We want this to fill like a big street party and give the neighborhood a sense of camaraderie,” she said.

A prize for the most spirited group along the race route will be handed out at the same time awards will be given to the winners of the 10-K run, 5-K walk and 1-mile fun run, Martin said, and the prize will include a gift card to Martin’s at Midtown.

The race route covers several roads around Glenwood Circle and Skipland, Edna, Cherry and Drummond Streets. 

For more information, call 601-636-5703 or 601-636-2353.