STURGEON BAY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Celebrating the holiday season is happening in Sturgeon Bay.
The Door County Maritime Museum’s “Merry-Time Festival of Trees” display is underway.
The event doubles as a fundraiser.
From the traditional decorations, to something perhaps a little different, officials say the Christmas spirit at the site is easy to find.
“We have over three dozen decorations throughout the museum. From trees, wreaths, decorative displays. They’ve all been created and donated by local individuals, and organizations and companies,” said Sam Perlman, Door County Maritime Museum Deputy Director.
Sam Perlman says the displays were installed last month.
“The Merry-Time Festival of Trees and Jingle Mixer are a fundraiser for the Door County Maritime Museum. And they support our mission to preserve and celebrate Door County and Great Lakes maritime history,” he said.
People bid on the trees, and will be able to take all of the decorations, prizes and gifts that are attached.
“Our good friends at O’Meara’s Irish House in Fish Creek are celebrating their 25th anniversary. So they went over the top with their tree this year. It has over $2,000 worth of gifts associated with the tree,” he said.
In addition, Perlman says a live auction gathered nearly $15,000. He says the decorations compliment what the maritime museum has to offer.
“It comes during a quieter time in the Door County calendar. And it’s an opportunity to really have a community event. It’s less about the tourist economy. It’s more about our local community coming together, putting these trees together, and getting in the holiday spirit,” said Perlman.
The trees will be on display until December 31.
In addition to the Sturgeon Bay location, The Door County Maritime Museum operates two other sites.
Those are based in Baileys Harbor, and Gills Rock.
