Win some Christmas cheer
Every year, the Zonta Club of Marathon puts on the Festival of Trees. This year, the trees are housed at the Florida Keys Country Club (formerly Sombrero Country Club). There is a record 40 trees this year up for grabs.
The event is open to the public on Thursday, Dec. 1 from 5 to 9 p.m., Friday, Dec. 2 from 5 to 9 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 2 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and admission is free. Guests are encouraged to purchase raffle tickets and “vote” for the trees they would like to win. The tickets are $5 each or six tickets for $20.
“This is one of our biggest fundraisers of the year, and we use the proceeds to support women and children in Marathon with free mammograms, scholarships and other needs,” said Michelle Franck, chairperson for the event.
It’s worth a trip — every tree has a theme and some are quite clever. For example, one “tree” is actually an aluminum ladder dripping with lights and The Home Depot gift cards. Quite a few are playful — like the Lego tree decorated with boxes of toys and the super hero tree with ornaments featuring Wonder Woman, Captain America and more. Of course, there’s also the Coca Cola tree (it comes with a fancy, standing cooler) and the beach tree (that comes with an umbrella and a beach chair).
“We also have really good gift baskets to bid on,” said Franck.
In addition, little ones are welcome to come have cookies with Santa from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday.
The event culminates with a gala (cash bar). Tickets are $50 in advance or $75 at the door. It’s on Saturday, Dec. 3 and starts at 7 p.m. with music by Karen and the Funkin Conchs. The raffle tickets will be drawn at the gala.
