It’s finally here, ladies and gents. The 38th annual Central Arkansas Radiation Therapy Institute (CARTI) Auxiliary’s Festival of Trees is upon us. The event, which benefits CARTI cancer patients, kicks off this week, Nov.19-22 at the Statehouse Convention Center Ballroom, Markham and Main streets, Little Rock.
There are a ton of things happening within the four days, with more festive fun lined up than you can shake a yule log at.
Here’s a rundown to help you keep organized.
Festival of Fashion: Signed, Sealed, Delivered
Wednesday, Nov. 19, 5-7:30 p.m.
Starting the days off with some sass, the fifth annual Festival of Fashion will feature Kim Cook as the 2014 CARTI Style Icon, a runway show from the biggest and best boutiques central Arkansas has to offer and the smooth Motown jams of DJ G-Force. And oh yeah, they’re auctioning off a trip to NYC Fashion Week. No big deal. (WHAT.)
Sugar Plum Ball: Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch
Thursday, Nov. 20, 6-8:30 p.m.
This event is currently sold out. Please call Jennifer McConser at (501) 660-7612 to be
placed on the waiting list.
Every bit as sweet as it sounds, this fairytale is a little princess’s dream come true. Each will receive a crown and is allowed to be escorted by their very own Prince Charming. Rumor has it all the seasonal stars will be there, including Santa, Mrs. Claus and Mrs. Arkansas, for an evening of food, fun and of course, dancing. It is a ball, after all.
Stroll Through the Forest: Dancin’ in the Trees
Friday, Nov. 21, 1:30-4 p.m.
What’s Christmas without a tree? Stop by and browse through dozens of them, trimmed in their finest attire, with every sort of theme you can imagine. You’re sure to get some inspiration for your own holiday decor with these dazzling delights. One thing’s for certain: If you don’t sing “O Christmas Tree” at least once, something is wrong with you.
Festival After Dark: ’Twas the Funk Before Christmas!
Friday, Nov. 21, 7 p.m.
All right, princesses, you’ve had your turn. Now it’s the adults’ time to have some fun(k). The Memphis Soul Revue will be there to keep you swingin’ and swayin’ all night. Chances are you’ll only sit down long enough to get a taste of the delectable treats from some of central Arkansas’ favorite restaurants, and that’s not a bad thing at all.
Tux ‘n Trees: Oh, What a Night
Saturday, Nov. 22, 6 p.m.
As the festival’s premier event since 1976, Tux ’n Trees offers a night of fine dining and dancing. The gala will feature keynote speaker Dr. Brad Baltz, both live and silent auctions, as well as live music by the Rodney Block Band. Be sure to check out our November spotlight on the Tux ’n Trees chair, Acxiom exec, cancer survivor and all-around fabulous person, Sherry Booles.
Visit CARTI’s website or follow them on Facebook for more information on the Festival of Trees. If you’re interested in volunteering, click here to find the necessary forms.
We’ll see you there!