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Christmas
CASPIAN — Preparations are underway at the Iron County Historical Museum for the 31st annual Christmas Tree Galleria slated to be held from Monday, Nov. 30 through Sunday, Dec. 6.
Like many events in 2020, the annual fundraiser will differ from past years, but Museum Director Erika Sauter expressed excitement at the opportunity to provide new offerings while continuing some of the beloved traditions that can still be held under current gathering restrictions.
“We’re modifying the event to be compliant with state mandates for safety while still offering the Christmas cheer and festive atmosphere that the community has come to love about the Galleria,” Sauter said.
The gift basket raffle (featuring 40 themed baskets) and display of decorated trees will be part of the usual event, but some of the programs that led to large gatherings, like the Family Night and Volunteer Appreciation Dinner, will be postponed until next year. New this year, tickets for the gift basket raffle can be purchased online so those who cannot (or choose not) to attend can still participate and support the fundraiser. The drawing will take place at 1 p.m. on Dec. 6 and winners will be notified via phone.
Sauter explained that the community is also welcome in-person at the museum ahead of the event during office hours to purchase basket raffle tickets. During the week of the Galleria, families and individuals will be able to walk through the museum’s Cultural Center to enjoy the trees, festive music and free, individually packaged treats to go. Masks are required indoors, and surfaces sanitized frequently.
“This year’s theme is ‘Hope for The Future’,” Sauter said. “Throughout the Galleria we’ll be using that theme to celebrate the good in our community.”
In line with the theme, a new element to this year’s event will be a series of giveaways and social media highlights of local businesses called “Hope for Iron County: Celebrating Entrepreneurs.”
Another new offering will be “Lights of Hope: A Driving Tour of Christmas Displays.” Iron County residents who are decorating for the holidays are encouraged to sign up to be featured on a map that the museum will create and distribute so the community can enjoy a driving tour of lighted displays through the holiday season.
“The Galleria is the museum’s largest and most important fundraiser,” explained Sauter. “We, like so many businesses and organizations, suffered a financial hit through the shutdown, and so now more than ever we hope for the community’s participation and support.”
For more details on the event, and to purchase gift basket raffle tickets, visit ironcountymuseum.org/galleria, visit the museum’s Facebook page, email erika@ironcountymuseum.org, or call 265-2617.