‘It’s an event full of music’
Christmas Daddies fundraiser returns for ninth year
Musicians of all stripes will be donating their time and talent to a five-week performance series that raises money for less fortunate children.
Northside Christmas Daddies is returning for its ninthyear with a set list ranging from amateurs to seasoned pros.
The campaign last year raised more than $8,200 for the Christmas Daddies Telethon that will be broadcast across the Maritimes on Dec. 1.
The series is held at Dooly’s in North Sydney and will feature local amateur band The Crew and master of ceremonies Bob MacDonald.
“It’s such as great event when we all come together as friends, volunteers and musicians to help the children,” said local musician Ward Glogowski.
“All are welcome. The Crew will be there to help anyone who wants to entertain. It’s an event full of music, laughter and friendships toward a common goal.”
The free musical series begins Saturday from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. and will continue each week — Nov. 3, 10, 17, 24.
Fundraiser volunteer Mia Patterson said the holidays are a time when people are together and thinking of others.
“That is what the North Christmas Daddies fundraiser is all about — coming together with the people in our community, thinking of others and doing our part to help others have the chance to share in the joy of the holidays — without the stress of struggling to provide Christmas for their children,” said Patterson.
Over the last nine years, volunteers have watched their event grow in conjunction with the community’s involvement.
She said there is now a lengthy list of people and businesses that are willing to help out this worthy cause.
“I am told that they are always sad to see it end and can’t wait for it to start all over again next year,” said Patterson. “It is so great to see everyone enjoying the atmosphere, the inhouse activities and the music supplied by The Crew and local area musicians who just drop in to play a tune.”
The theme for this year’s fundraiser is, ‘It’s the most wonderful time of the year.’ A grand finale concert will be held Nov. 30 from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Area musicians are invited to stop by and play two or three tunes.
The annual fundraiser supports Christmas Daddies, which is a not-for-profit organization that has raised funds for less fortunate children in the Maritimes since 1964.
Donations are then distributed to families at Christmastime through The Salvation Army.