BERLIN – Habitat for Humanity of Worcester County will celebrate 20 years of building hope through building homes with a Masquerade at St. Martin’s.
The event, Habitat for Humanity’s annual gala, will take place Friday, Oct. 23 at the historic St. Martin’s Church from 7-11 p.m.
“It’s a week before Halloween and it’s the only masquerade ball around here,” said Andrea Bowland, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Worcester County. “It’s a great event and a fun way to celebrate Halloween.”
For the first time, the organization’s annual gala will be held at St. Martin’s Church. Bowland said the historic location was perfect for the gala.
“Habitat for Humanity has its roots in the church,” she said. “The location speaks to the mentality of Habitat and there’s so much history there.”
The 20th anniversary event, which kicks off with a champagne reception in the church before moving to tents outside, will feature food from a number of area restaurants and musical performances from renowned local artists. Bryan Russo and Bargain Scotch will perform early in the evening, followed by Nadjah Nicole and finally The Hot Club of Baltimore. Many will remember Nicole from last year’s gala. Bowland says that while she generally tries to book new entertainers each year, she was overwhelmed with requests for the young singer and asked her to return.
“People were blown away by her,” Bowland said.
Nicole, a Wilmington resident, is actually a contestant on the current season of NBC’s “The Voice” but had a break from the competition and was able to commit to the Habitat for Humanity event.
Bowland says her organization’s black tie event usually attracts 175-200 people. She’s hoping for even more this year. In keeping with the masquerade theme, guests are asked to come wearing masks.
“It’s going to be different aesthetically than a lot of events,” she said.
Tickets for the event are available at www.habitatworcester.org. Bowland says tickets may be purchased until Oct. 16 for $95. The week of the event, that price increases to $115.
