Dear Friends of Summit and the Cashiers-Highlands Plateau,

 

As we approach our sixth year, the Cashiers Festival of Trees has become a cherished tradition–bringing our community together in a celebration of generosity, creativity, and the spirit of the season.

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Its impact continues to grow–raising $2.3 million since 2021 in support of Summit Charter School and fellow nonprofits. With that growth comes a responsibility to ensure what we are building remains joyful and sustainable for years to come. With that in mind, we are pleased to share a thoughtful evolution of the Festival of Trees.

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Beginning in 2027, the Thanksgiving Weekend Festival will become a biennial event, returning every other year. This intentional shift preserves the magic and quality of the experience and supports the incredible volunteers and donors who make it possible.

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Our treasured Toast to the Trees summer gala will continue annually–a consistent evening for our community to gather and support our beloved K–12 school. We are also thrilled to welcome two Summit students to our fundraiser leadership team this year, helping bring more student voice and enthusiasm to our events.

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Here’s the exciting part—2026 will be a full celebration year—and a pivotal one. We need your support!

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We begin on July 28 with Toast to the Trees at The Club at High Hampton, hosted by Miranda and Josh Crawford. This year’s theme, A Midsummer Snowfall, sets the stage for a candlelit evening of celebration–where soft whites and shimmering details create a winter-inspired escape. We are delighted to welcome back Moët Hennessy as our Toast Beverage Sponsor and Cashiers Valley Real Estate as our Presenting Sponsor.

 

Then, on Nov. 27–28, the Festival returns, transforming Summit’s campus into a winter wonderland. Decorated trees and wreaths, shopping, and festive experiences for all ages fill the halls. From children’s crafts and scavenger hunts to our VIP Breakfast with Santa & Friends, life-size firewood displays, and Friday’s After Dark evening party, there is something for everyone.

 

At its heart, the Festival supports Summit, our tuition-free public charter school. Because Summit receives significantly less public funding than traditional public schools, private donations are essential each year to sustain our teachers, academics, small class sizes, the arts, athletics, outdoor education, our facilities, and more. In fact, Summit must raise more than $1 million annually to bridge the gap between public funding and the true cost of delivering the exceptional education our students receive. Participating nonprofits also receive 80% of proceeds from their auction items–extending your impact throughout the community!

 

As we transition to a biennial Festival model, the success of 2026 will help sustain Summit through the years between Festivals. Your Benefactor support this year is more important than ever.

 

Enclosed, please find information on our Benefactor Packages and ways to support this effort. Thank you for helping us bring the magic to life for our school and community.

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Kat Ford, Mark Rindom, MC Pusch -- Event Chairs

Melissa Hudson - Festival of Trees Director