Decatur Welcomes Back the 15th Annual 'Guns and Hoses' Bell-Ringing Contest

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DECATUR, Ill. (WCIA) — In a cherished holiday tradition, law enforcement and firefighters in Macon County are once again squaring off in a friendly competition to support the Salvation Army.

Known as the Guns and Hoses bell-ringing contest, this annual event has seen firefighters and police officers rally together since 2011 to raise funds by ringing bells and collecting donations at Decatur’s grocery stores. Over the years, their efforts have amassed over $200,000 for the charity. This weekend marks the 15th installment of the contest.

The event features participation from the City of Decatur Fire Department, City of Decatur Police Department, Macon County Sheriff’s Office, and various Macon County fire departments outside of Decatur. They will be stationed at designated locations this Friday and Saturday, ringing bells from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Walmart East (4625 East Maryland Street)
- The Macon County Sheriff’s Office at the pharmacy door
- The Decatur Police Department at the food door
Walmart North (4224 North Prospect Street)
- Macon County fire departments at the food door
- The Decatur Fire Department at the pharmacy door

The competition is all about raising the highest amount of donations, and the Decatur Fire Department currently holds the title, having claimed victory eight times. Meanwhile, the Decatur Police Department is eager to reclaim the top spot after a hat trick of wins from 2021 to 2023.