By Melissa Wagoner
When the community-building nonprofit known as Silverton Together dissolved earlier this year, the Elizabeth Hoke Trust – a foundation honoring the legacy of SHS alumnus, Elizabeth Hoke – decided to take over many of its programs, including the annual Silverton Community Christmas Fest.
“This is a celebration of the Silverton Community and the amazing people that make it up,” founder Kristan Hoke said. “It has been around for 27 years and we believed that it deserves to be around another 27 or more.”
Taking place on Saturday, Dec. 10, 1 to 4 p.m. at the Silverton Community Center, the event will include children’s crafts, photos with Santa and refreshments as well as special performances by the Silverton High band and the Silverton Ballet and Performing Arts Co.
And then there are the trees.
“Ten clubs and organizations from Silverton High School will be decorating trees for judging by those in attendance. The winning club will receive a $500 prize for their group,” Hoke said. “In addition, this year, we will be auctioning off these beautiful decorated trees in a silent auction and those funds raised will be used for purchasing gifts for families in need that we have adopted in the community.”
Also offering assistance for those in need during the holiday season will be Santa Cares, another no-cost community event held in the adjoining City Council Chambers.
Kicking off with the acceptance of gently used gift donations such as jewelry, knick-knacks, toys, children’s books, sports equipment, between 10 a.m. and noon, organizers will begin letting shoppers in the door, 10 at a time, starting at 12:30 p.m.
“Come and enjoy making contributions, volunteering, and selecting gifts for your family,” organizer Karen Garst said.
Because, as with the Silverton Community Christmas Fest, Santa Cares is available to all.
“It’s open to the entire community,” Hoke said, “and is designed to have something for everyone.”
Silverton Community Christmas Fest
Children’s crafts, refreshments, photos with Santa, music and dance performances and a tree decorating contest.
Silverton Community Center, 421 S. Water St. Saturday, Dec. 10, 1 to 4 p.m. Free to all.
Santa Cares – Free Community Gift Swap
Silverton City Council Chambers, 421 S. Water St.
Donations of gently used items (jewelry, toys, books, knick-knacks and sporting equipment) accepted Dec. 1 to 4 p.m. and Dec. 10, 10 a.m. to noon. Gifts available Dec. 10 12:30 to 4 p.m.
