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October/November 2024 | maconmagazine.com 73 Show your support for MAS by becoming a member at masmacon.org in the pavilion. Featuring more than 50 unique designs by regional artists and designers, the Festival of Trees exhibition will be on display through January 11th during regular operating hours and is included with Museum admission. You can visit the Museum of Arts and Sciences Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Host Committee of 120 volunteers, and is led by chairperson Marjie Dickey Roquemore. "The Festival of Trees, which was originally named Our Holiday Best, represents three generations of investment in the Museum's educational programming," said Executive Director Susan Welsh. "It's wonderful to see these meaningful traditions continue to grow year after year to include such a wide spectrum of events that engage so many volunteers and attract diverse audiences. Off ering high quality programming while keeping Museum admission aff ordable for the families of Central Georgia is our greatest challenge – and one that we could not meet without the funds raised through Festival of Trees. We are extremely thankful for all those who make these events successful." The 2024 celebration begins on Thursday, November 14th, at noon with a champagne preview of the Festival of Trees exhibition plus art sale and Sugar Plum Shop of baked goods. "[Alongside] over 100 volunteers that come together to raise funds, host the opening events, coordinate over 60 tree designers, and work with local businesses and individuals, I hope visitors will be amazed at the creativity of the designers, inspired by the designs, and excited for the upcoming holidays. Additionally, this year's featured artist, Macon's own Bo Walker, has created such a unique piece of art to capture Festival of the Trees," said Roquemore. The gala, an annual black-tie event, will move to Friday, November 15, introducing new partners for food and entertainment alongside a silent art auction. The Best of Macon Raffl e will lure in all again this year – off ering those unable to attend the gala an opportunity to join in on the fun. The gala is reported to be an elegant evening with cocktails in the galleries, followed by heavy hors d'oeuvres and live music under the stars Festival of Trees Chair, Margie Dickey Roquemore at far right, and other past FOT participants at 2022 Gala.