Down Syndrome Organization of Southern Nevada to Celebrate 35th Anniversary at Annual Festival of Trees and Lights Gala

Holiday tradition returns to gala setting; incorporates special viewing event for families with young children

Down Syndrome Organization of Southern Nevada (DSOSN), the leading nonprofit organization and primary source of education, information, and support for Southern Nevada families with Down syndrome and other Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), will celebrate its 35th anniversary at this year’s Festival of Trees and Lights Gala beginning at 5:30 pm on November 19 at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino.

The annual holiday tradition, which was started by DSOSN’s founding members in 1988, brings the Las Vegas community, DSOSN members and families together for a night of giving and celebration. Exquisitely decorated Christmas trees, wreaths, menorahs, and baskets will decorate the Westgate’s Ballroom and be available for bidding through an online auction and will be on display for a Special Viewing Event. 

“Being able to celebrate DSOSN’s 35^th anniversary at this year’s Festival of Trees and Lights Gala is exciting,” said Barbara Desrochers, FOTL Event Chair. “Not only are we tapping into our history by bringing the gala back to the Las Vegas Strip, but we’re giving families the opportunity to join us for a Special Viewing Event to get in the holiday spirit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, while previewing the gala’s auction items on display.”

The gala is black-tie optional and includes a cocktail reception with grand piano entertainment, live and silent auctions hosted by celebrity auctioneer Christian Kolberg, a multi-course gourmet meal, recognition and awards, entertainment, dancing, and a champagne toast.

Open to the public, the Special Viewing Event will be held the day of the gala from 11 am – 3 pm for $10 a person 7 years and older (6 years and younger and registered DSOSN Members are FREE). Guests will have a chance to view the beautiful trees, wreaths and online auction items on display before bidding opens at 5:30 pm, as well as enjoy photo opportunities with Santa and Mrs. Claus. 

Proceeds raised from the Festival of Trees and Lights will remain local and allow DSOSN to continue servicing individuals and families with Trisomy-21, also known as Down syndrome and other Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). Individual gala tickets are available for $250 or $2,000 for a table of eight. Sponsorships and advertising opportunities are also available. To purchase tickets or get more information about the event, please visit by clicking here: https://www.dsosn.org/festival-of-trees-and-lights

About Down Syndrome Organization of Southern Nevada

Founded in 1987, Down Syndrome Organization of Southern Nevada (DSOSN) is the leading nonprofit organization and primary source of education, information, and support for Southern Nevada families with Down syndrome. DSOSN provides a variety of services for children, teens and adults with Down syndrome including other Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD): educational and recreational workshops and programs, developmental and speech therapy, sign language, advocacy outreach, member socials, support groups, and resources.

DSOSN is affiliated with the National Down Syndrome Congress (NDSC), National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS), and Down Syndrome Affiliates in Action (DSAIA); and is a proud member of the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce with profiles on Great Nonprofits, GuideStar, and the Global Down Syndrome Foundation.

For more information call (702) 648-1990, visit www.DSOSN.org, or follow @DownSyndromeSNV on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, or LinkedIn.

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