Beacon’s 11th annual fundraiser set for Dec. 4-6
The Holiday House of Hope is easily the Beacon of Hope’s largest annual fundraiser. After an especially difficult year, the Beacon Board is planning a very festive event this year at the Tarpon Lodge, according to board member Elsie Stearns.
Due to social restrictions, there will be no family night this year, and most of the event will take place outdoors. Friday night will kick off the weekend event from 5-9 p.m., Saturday will be 4-9 p.m., and Sunday from 1-4 p.m.
“We’ve never done a Sunday before,” said Stearns, “we’re hoping maybe after church services or Sunday breakfast with the family, people will head out or come and have lunch at the Tarpon and then do the Holiday House.”
She said you can expect to see some new vendors this year along with a few changes, such as the Pine Island Art Association, which normally auctions a Christmas tree decorated with members’ own individual pieces, selling hand-painted ornaments with 100 percent of the proceeds going to the Beacon. There will be trays of appetizers, as well as alcoholic drinks you can purchase as you shop.
Reservations are strongly recommended for anyone planning to have dinner prior to or during the event, as it tends to be a busy time.
The theme this year is “Christmas,” Stearns said, which will be very bright and festive. In keeping with the Christmas spirit, the Matlacha Hookers have agreed to sing carols.
“I’m hoping that by the time the Holiday House comes to fruition this year, people are wanting to get out,” said Stearns. “A lot of these vendors have had so many of their events cancelled and when I spoke to them about our event taking place outside, they were very excited.”
Local author, Marty Ambrose, John Mills, DL Havlin and Mary Kay Stevens will have their books available for sale or signing.
According to Tarpon Lodge Manager Rob Wells, provisions have been made for those who’d like to bring their children while they shop.
“Due to coronavirus concerns and the complexity of social distancing,” said Wells, “we unfortunately decided to cancel the family night. In an effort to accommodate families who have a difficult time finding child care, the Holiday House volunteers plan to have a table set up with activities for children accompanying their parents.”
One of the most beloved Holiday House traditions is the Table Top Tree Auction, with gifts provided by local businesses. Participants bid with a donation on any or all trees, and the winning bid receives the gift that particular business chose to donate to the auction.
“In light of all that’s gone on, maybe this year is the year to do your shopping safely outdoors at Holiday House, rather than the mall,” said Stearns. “I always say, keep it local … maybe we can keep our Christmas shopping local this year too. We’re going to make sure everyone’s safe while upholding island traditions we’ve come to love.”