Austin360 blogs > Out & About > Archives > 2008 > December > 10 > Entry
Scaling back on holiday socializing, Part 5
See Parts 1-4 in posts below.
One recurring theme for holiday socializing: More domestic gatherings, fewer institutional events.
“(We’re) focusing more on at-home parties and celebrations,” said Vicki Callegari, executive director of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
“The next few weeks will include a number of in-home joint cooking/dining experiences, several groups getting together to walk the Trail of Lights,” said Ballet Austin executive director Cookie Ruiz.
Despite the domestic trend, anecdotal evidence suggests that big, long-planned social events haven’t lost traction. Dec. 7, the second-ever Dancing with the Stars Austin, which benefits the Center for Child Protection, pulled in 900 guests and more than $400,000 at the Hilton Austin. Days before, the Silver Box Party attracted a full house of 300 and approximately $30,000 for Equality Texas at the Monarch.
Good company seems to trump band times.
“Cutting down on frivolous gifts? Yes,” said singer Erin Ivey. “Cutting down on out-of-state travel? Yes. Cutting down on stress? Yes. Cutting down on socializing? Heck no!”
“We always say we aren’t going to go to all the parties,” said philanthropist Maria Groten. “But then its difficult to pass up the opportunity to spend time with good friends during the holidays.”
As Sarah Rigdon, proofreader for the Texas Legislative Council and manager of the Dionysium said: “When times are tough the most natural response is to gather your acquaintances, friends, and loved ones, pool your resources, put your heads together, tell stories, and relax.”
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