The Grand Traverse Area Catholic Schools' annual Gladhander fundraising event will take place October 24, with a western “Hoedown or Hootenanny" theme. However, instead of the annual tradition of an all-night party and auction for hundreds, the 2020 version will take a different shape. 

Event protocols permitting, a Hoedown-themed gathering is still being planned for a limited number of guests at the new Immaculate Conception Elementary School. Chief Advancement Officer Wayne Mueller describes the event as "more low-key, with less emphasis on the over-the-top decorations for which Gladhander is famous, and more focus on simply being together after long months of quarantine." A planning committee is monitoring State executive orders and plans to make a decision about the in-person event on or about October 1.

Meanwhile, Hootenanny guests can pay $75 to host a home party that features catered barbeque-style food, party decorations, and more. The Gladhander program will be broadcast online to Hootenanny sites. 

Two tradition that will continue: a raffle with a grand prize choice of a JEEP Gladiator pickup, Regal bowrider boat, or $32,000 in cash; and the fundraising auction, which will be held using an online platform. 

Click here to learn more about Gladhander.