Jessica Mathews / news@whmi.com


Tickets are on sale for an annual charity gala that brings a tropical vibe to the cold times.

The Livingston Sunrise Rotary Club is hosting "Midnight in the Tropics" on Saturday, March 1st at the Crystal Gardens Event & Banquet Center in Genoa Township.

Tickets and sponsorships are now available at www.midnightinthetropics.com.

Since its inception, the event has raised nearly $750,000 for local non-profit organizations and service providers - with the majority of funds staying in Livingston County.

Known for its laid-back atmosphere, organizers say the tropical-themed evening is the perfect chance to escape winter and embrace a relaxed island vibe. Guests are encouraged to dress in their favorite tropical attire and “be transported to paradise”!

This year, proceeds will benefit two organizations said to be making a transformative impact in the community:

North Star Reach
North Star Reach, located in Pinckney, MI, provides life-changing camp experiences for seriously ill children and their families, free of charge. As Michigan’s only fully accessible, barrier-free, medically supported camp, it offers kids the chance to enjoy childhood adventures like campfires, canoeing, and archery — moments they might otherwise miss. With support from the Livingston Sunrise Rotary Foundation, North Star Reach will host three Family Camps in 2025, bringing the magic of camp to more than 300 campers and their families.

VINA Community Dental Center
VINA Community Dental Center, located in Brighton, MI, is a nonprofit dental clinic serving uninsured, limited-income adults in Livingston County. This year’s funding will help expand VINA’s Senior Smiles program, offering essential dental care to approximately 300 seniors, including fillings, dentures, and oral surgery. These services will not only restore smiles but also enhance the overall well-being of Livingston County’s senior residents.

In addition to purchasing tickets, the Club says this is a perfect opportunity for businesses to support the event through sponsorship. LSRC also welcomes donations of items like gift certificates, unique experiences, and other auctionable goods. Past contributions have included dinner packages, weekend getaways, and more. Donors receive valuable recognition from our auctioneer and in front of all attendees.

Organizers say "Midnight in the Tropics 2025" will be “a night to remember while giving back to our community. Together, we can create meaningful change and help our neighbors thrive”.

A link to more information is provided.