Source: Palm Beach Symphony

Reported By: Matthew Kennedy

Palm Beach will strike a joyful chord this holiday season as Palm Beach Symphony presents its Ninth Annual Holly Jolly Symphony Fête on Monday, December 8, beginning at 10:30 a.m. at the Cohen Pavilion at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach. This beloved holiday tradition combines an elegant luncheon, spirited musical performances, and an expansive silent auction—all in support of the Symphony’s renowned music education and community outreach programs.

Proceeds from the event benefit the Symphony’s initiatives, including the Instrument Donation Program, which has placed 931 musical instruments and more than 2,700 accessories and pieces of equipment into the hands of young musicians across Palm Beach County since 2016. This year’s luncheon will feature the presentation of new instruments to several local schools and students, underscoring the event’s tangible impact.

The occasion will also honor the 2025 Instrumental Music Teacher of the Year. Nominations remain open until Sunday, October 19, inviting students, parents, colleagues, and community members to recognize outstanding K–12 music educators in the county’s public, private, and charter schools.

This year’s honorary chairs are Carol and Thomas Bruce, with Mary and Will Demory serving as event chairs, Dr. Martha Rodriguez and Dr. Jesus Perez-Mendez as vice chairs, and Marietta Muiña McNulty as auction chair. Sponsorship support comes from FINDLAY Galleries, Palm Beach Design Masters, and Private Cask Imports, Inc., along with an extensive roster of philanthropic patrons and foundations committed to the Symphony’s mission.

The Holly Jolly season begins with a pre-event Gift Gathering Party on Thursday, October 23, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., hosted by Mary and Will Demory at Palm Beach Design Masters on Peruvian Avenue. Guests are encouraged to bring items for the silent auction, with an Amazon Wish List also available for curated donations that will be showcased at the December luncheon.

The silent auction itself promises a range of luxury and lifestyle offerings, art, travel experiences, and more—each elegantly presented to entice the discerning bidder.

Founded in 1974, Palm Beach Symphony has grown into South Florida’s premier orchestra, known for its diverse repertoire, world-class musicians, and commitment to cultural enrichment. Recognized with the 2020 Muse Award for Outstanding Community Engagement, the organization continues to inspire through performances, master classes, children’s concerts, and free public events that have reached more than 90,000 students in recent years.