A Christmas tree fundraiser is coming back to Chatham-Kent.
Starting Wednesday, November, 29, the Chatham Armoury will be home to Merry Magic, a fundraiser in which attendees can purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win a Christmas tree with all the decorations and gifts.
"We are supporting the Salvation Army and Camp Vincent by feeding kids in school and sending kids to camp," said Lisa Lester, owner of Four Diamond Events. "So the Merry Mingle is our first night, it's our kick-off, it's the chance for everyone to see the trees. There will be a cash bar and entertainment as well."
Lester said tickets to the opening preview party night are $20.
"We start with a Merry Mingle. We're going to have appetizers and you can be the first to view these beautiful trees. Different businesses have donated them, and these trees will have gifts under them, gift certificates on them," Lester said.
Merry Magic is similar to the former Christmas in Muskoka event, which was run by the St. Clair Catholic School Board.
"I was always involved with Christmas in Muskoka in the past, and it was such an amazing event, it brought our community together to celebrate Christmas," said Lester. "Now we are bringing it back, revamped and it's going to be an amazing time for our entire community."
After a special event on Thursday, November 30 for the Children's Treatment Centre, Lester said Merry Magic opens up to the public at 4 p.m. on Friday, December 1.
"We are not selling tickets ahead of time, we want to make this affordable for everyone. So what we are asking is for a $5 donation at the door to go towards our charities," Lester said.
Lester added that they have lots of activities planned.
"There will be games for the kids, Santa will be there, Mrs. Claus will be there with her Elves. We're going to have some dance parties, ornament making," he said. "There will be tasty treats there for everyone to enjoy. The main focus is on the trees, but there will be tons of other stuff to do as well."
Merry Magic wraps up after 10 days on Saturday, December 9, with the Christmas tree winners being drawn at 8 p.m.
For more information and the full schedule, visit the website at https://merrymagicevent.com/.