November 2020 – The 2020 COVID-19 public health crisis has presented numerous challenges and impacted life in unforeseen ways. Two affected local organizations are working together to make the most of the situation: The City of Collinsville’s annual Festival of Trees will be modified this year and raise funds for KAHOKstrong.
CUSD 10’s benevolent organization, KAHOKstrong, has seen need in our community escalate at a time when in-person fundraising opportunities are extremely limited. Based on public gathering restrictions, fundraisers like the annual KAHOKstrong Glow Bingo are not allowed .
The City of Collinsville’s Festival of Trees is a much anticipated event held at Gateway Center each year, drawing several hundred attendees and raising money for local not-for-profit organizations. The large crowd the gala attracts are not allowed this year, so organizers brainstormed a way to honor the spirit of the event and designated KAHOKstrong to receive the proceeds.
The December 4, 2020 “Gathering of Trees” is 6:30 – 9:00 p.m. in the 40,000 square foot Gateway Center exhibition space and will require temperature checks, masks and social distancing. There are a limited number of tickets for the event that also includes a Winter Market with an opportunity to purchase holiday items from an assortment of merchants. Attendees will walk through a “holiday winter wonderland with beautifully decorated live tress, gorgeous wreaths, unique home décor and vendors galore.”
Those unable to to attend the Gathering of Trees can bid online for the displayed items starting at 9:00 a.m. on December 4. Check out the event on Facebook for information.
KAHOKstrong released a statement saying, “[We have] been blessed to have so many people support the organization; and because of that support, [we] are able to help more and more each year. We hope you can join us this year at the Gathering of Trees and Winter Market!”
The Gateway Center is currently soliciting vendors and sponsors to participate. Those interested should contact Jeff Foster at 618-345-8998 ext. 117 or [email protected]. Click HERE for downloadable information regarding tickets and sponsorships.
Gather, Celebrate, and Shop: Benefiting KAHOKstrong
Joyously celebrate the holidays by joining us at the 27th Anniversary of the Gathering of Trees held at the Collinsville Gateway Convention Center. The 40,000 square foot event space transforms into a holiday winter wonderland with beautifully decorated live trees, gorgeous wreaths, unique home décor, and vendors galore! Holiday magic abounds thanks to a generous community.
VIP Tree Night December 4, 6:30PM-9:00PM: Tickets are $50 each and include entry and all you can eat and drink.
Have you been to Festival of Trees before? This night will be set up much like years past with online bidding, food and beverage, entertainment, raffles, vendors and more. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, limited tickets will be available.
Purchase tickets online or in person at Gateway Convention Center: https://collinsvillechristmas.eventbrite.com
Check and cash payments accepted, please send to:
2020 Gathering of Trees
City of Collinsville
1 Gateway Drive
Collinsville, IL, 62234