It’s time once again for Grace Christian Academy’s (GCA) annual Winter Festival, so make plans to come out on Tuesday, Nov. 29, from 4 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. As in years past, the festival promises something for every member of the family. Fun and games are always a part of the event; however, this year GCA is especially excited about the awesome activities and inflatables that are planned for the kids. Some of the new items include: huge sand box, featherlocks, cake walk, medical tent, castle jump & slide for “little” ones, obstacle course III, and home run challenge. The Mechanical Bull and Spider Mountain/Bungee will be back again by popular demand.

Other activities will include the annual silent and live auction, the children’s art auction, the general store, the annual raffle, the student art exhibition and — of course — the food and concessions.

Admission to the event is free. Tickets for the games/attractions can be purchased in advance or at the gate. This year pre-sale tickets for unlimited access to all the games, activities and inflatables will be sold on Monday, Nov. 28, and Tuesday, Nov. 29, for $20. The gate price will be $25.

Silent auction

A major highlight for Winter Festival is the silent auction. More than 130 items have been graciously donated by numerous business and individuals this year and there are many areas to choose from: Christmas items; travel packages; hunting, fishing, and sporting goods; art and music; beauty and clothing; home and office; party packages; food; services and toys.

Live auction

The Live Auction is back again with auctioneer Tom Mills and nine items up for bid. The 2011 items include: Aquamarine & Diamond Earrings, compliments of Bishop’s Jewelers; Christmas In Altanta including four tickets to the musical “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” and two-night stay at the Embassy Suites; Custom Built Fire Pit, compliments of Don Paul and Len Floyd; Beautiful Diamond Journey Pendant, compliments of Godwin Jewelers; a one-week Mountain Get-Away in Saluda, N.C., compliments of Ken and Vickie Bailey; Deep Sea Fishing Trip for 10 on the famous Lady J II, compliments of Captain Danny Tankersley; Custom Built Log Playhouse, compliments of Flint River Log Homes; Custom Built “pull-behind” Steel Grill/Smoker, compliments of DaniMer; and an AKC registered labrador retriever puppy, compliments of Brian Dean Farms.

Student art, general store and raffle

The student art auction always includes creative pieces from all of the GCA students, K3 through 12th grade. Many thanks to the all the parents and teachers that give of their time and talents to make this event possible — it is always a big hit!

The General Store will once again be offering various homemade cakes, pies, casseroles and other favorites. There will also be toys, monogrammed items, and many other hand-made items donated by GCA family and friends.

The raffle drawing will take place at the end of the evening and this year the raffle items include a Benelli Vinci 12-gauge shotgun, Louis Vuitton three-piece luggage set, and $1,000 in cash. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased that evening.

Make plans now to bring family and friends and come out and enjoy a wonderful fun-filled evening at Grace Christian Academy.