The 10th annual Holiday Tree Lighting Event at Hotel Bellwether and Lighthouse Grill benefitting Skookum Kids is happening the entire month of December. Hotel Bellwether transforms into a festive holiday wonderland with creatively themed trees on display throughout the lobby and halls, all decorated and sponsored by local businesses.
The event is open to the public and the community is encouraged to visit and vote on their favorite tree by donating monetarily or bringing new or gently used clothing. Those who vote are entered to win an overnight stay in the iconic three-story Lighthouse Suite valued at $1,000. Voting ends December 31st with the winner announced in the new year.
“I love how this event brings the community together for such a meaningful cause and truly gets you in the holiday spirit!” says Kelly Pullar, assistant front office manager at Hotel Bellwether. “I look forward each year to seeing the trees come to life by all the local businesses with such creativity, fun themes, décor and interactive displays.”
100% of proceeds from the event go to Skookum Kids, a volunteer-staffed facility that provides crucial care and support for children entering or transitioning into foster care. Last year almost $8,000 was raised and more than 500 votes were received for the favorite tree. This year’s goal is to raise $15,000.
“Every year this event brings important funds and attention to the work of foster care,” says Gina Russell, operations manager at Skookum Kids. “So many kids need a safe place to the spend the holidays, and support from events like this make certain their time with us is safe and fun!”
Winning organization’s last year included Brigadoon Service Dogs in 1st place, Urban Ecology in 2 nd place and Bellingham Bells in 3 rd Place. Participating local businesses this year include Avenue Bread, Bellingham Cold Storage, Garden Spot, Lummi Fishing Supply, Bellingham Bells, Samson Estates, Northwest Keyboards, Urban Ecology, Brigadoon Dogs, Tahara Consulting, GNW Title, Whatcom Land Title, Whatcom Business Alliance, Faithlife, Jennifer Ryan Design, Skookum Kids and Hotel Bellwether’s very own Bella, the hotel’s official canine concierge.
“My tail is always wagging as my Hotel Bellwether home comes alive with holiday magic! I love getting to be Santa Paws and decorate my own holiday tree and invite all my friends to come view them all throughout the halls,” says Bella, canine concierge at Hotel Bellwether. “See you soon and remember, the best way to spread Christmas cheer is barking together for all to hear!”
For more information, call Hotel Bellwether front desk at 360-392-3100.
The Hotel Bellwether is a premier full-service luxury hotel located on Bellingham Bay and the bustling waterfront district. It features 66 guest rooms, including a private Lighthouse Suite, Lighthouse Grill restaurant, private dock, and 10,000 square feet of meeting & event space for 10-550 people including the recently expanded ballroom. The hotel is consistently rated one of the top luxury hotels in the Pacific Northwest and was recently voted the #1 Luxury Hotel on Evening Magazines Best of the Northwest.
