Merrill Poker Run deals its 25th hand Nov. 14

For a quarter-century, a group of local businesses has turned one November Saturday into a free holiday shopping game. On Saturday, Nov. 14, 2026, the Merrill Poker Run returns for its 25th year, with more than $1,000 in prizes that can be spent at any of the 15 participating sponsors.
“Can you believe it? We’ve reached 25 years bringing the Merrill community unique and fresh Christmas ideas for the coming season,” Courtside Furniture President/Owner Tony Kusserow said.
The game costs nothing to play, and no purchase is required. On the day of the event, pick up a free game card at any participating business. Then visit all 15 stops and get your card stamped at each one. Turn in the completed card at Merrill Ace Hardware between 1 and 5 p.m. That’s the only place cards will be accepted. Players are then dealt a poker hand, and the best hands win.
The grand prize is $750. First prize is $180, second is $150, and third is $120. A prize will also go to the worst poker hand. That prize winner receives tickets to the Grand Theater Christmas Show featuring Vic Ferrari.
This year’s sponsors are Westside Market, The B’s Nest, Miller Home Furnishings, Victoria’s Floral, Merrill Historical Society, Inspiring Creativity, Kind Hearted Floral & Custom Creations, Polka Dotted Pie, Hargrave Appliance Center, VIP Office Products, Klug’s Country Gold, Courtside Furniture, Edward Jones, Merrill Sheet Metal, and Merrill Ace Hardware.
Each stop will have its own in-store and Christmas specials. The Merrill Historical Society will offer tours and a bingo raffle with cash prizes. Courtside Furniture will run Black Friday specials a couple of weeks early. The B’s Nest and Polka Dotted Pie will serve breakfast and lunch specials.
For store hours and more information, contact any of the participating businesses. You can also listen to WJMT or call the Merrill Area Chamber of Commerce at 715.536.9474 for more information.