Make like a tree and go to the Gala

Gala promises forest-like and fun atmosphere

The Platte Valley Community Center Great Hall will be transformed into the Great Forest Dec. 6 when the Festival of Trees and Saratoga/Platte Valley Chamber of Commerce kick off with holiday festivities.

People are encouraged to check out the beautiful, funny and strange ways local businesses and organizations have decorated their trees for the event. Visitors will also have the opportunity to vote for their favorite tree.

"There will be cider and cookies available while you see the decorated trees, the gift baskets, the homemade crafts and sometimes the holiday products local businesses carry," Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Stacy Crimmins said.

The festival culminates in a gala event at 6 p.m. Dec. 6, complete with cash bar, appetizers and an auction.

Tickets to the event are $35.

The auction, which boasts dozens of items ranging from the decorated trees and gift baskets to wreaths and baked goods, starts at 7 p.m.

Proceeds benefit Saratoga and Encampment high school organizations.

"Each year, a beneficiary is chosen by the chamber office board, and a lot of times it is an organization that doesn't normally fundraise," Crimmins said. "This is a charitable way of giving to them.

Crimmins said the Chamber of Commerce is still looking for a beneficiary this year.

"The gala is a fun event, and we would like to see more people attend it," Crimmins said. Crimmins said the event is a fun night out for all to have. Crimmins also thinks the dinner and auction makes a great date night for couples thanks to the great food, quality entertainment and charitable cause.

"It's great for first dates even, because Teense (Willford) is the auctioneer, and he's funny, and it's just a nice evening. It's a fundraiser, so that's nice, too," Crimmins said.

The Bear Trap is catering the event, and will also provide a cash bar.

This year's dinner will consist of assorted appetizers, like wings and meat balls. Cheese cakes will also be served.

For more information on the Festival of Trees Gala, call the Saratoga-Platte Valley Chamber of Commerce at 307-326-8855.