What comprises the quintessence of Christmas décor for you? Do you love sparkle and glitz? Do you love to ooh and ahh while ogling the opulent ornaments in city store windows? Or do you prefer a tree with decorations of natural materials or with country feel? Perhaps you love an old-fashioned Christmas in bright red and green--or pastel Victorian flair with lace and pearls? Or with family coming, do you prefer a tree that delights children, or has a whimsical theme? Or is your thing contemporary chic?

Whether your preference is traditional or eclectic, lavish or modest--get ready for Gualala Arts' first annual Festival of Trees & Gingerbread Houses, a part of the Redwood Coast Chamber on Commerce's "Christmas on the Coast," set for December 4, from 2 - 6 p.m. at Gualala Arts Center, 46501 Old State Highway in Gualala.

The Gualala Arts Center is decked out in holiday splendor for the season, and is hosting an exhibit and auction of decorated trees by (or sponsored by) local businesses and individuals that encompass all types of themes. Also on sale will be fresh and festive greens and scrumptious baked goods for your holiday celebrations or for gift giving.

At 4 o'clock, the Ernest Bloch Bell Ringers, a dozen ringers festive with gleaming brass English handbells and bright red attire, will present their Holiday Concert with sing-a-long caroling. The Bell Ringers concert will gratefully accept donations for the Coast Community Library. There will be delectable refreshments galore--homemade savories and cookies, hot mulled wine and spiced cider by the Gualala Arts Culinary Arts Guild.

Choose your favorite tree and bid by silent or live auction (live auction will begin at 5 p.m.), on a completely decorated tree to grace your home for the holidays. Also up for auction will be a varied selection of "gingerbread" houses designed to be a focal point of your holiday display.

Options for delivery to your home or business will be announced at the event. Gualala Arts Festival Committee will gladly accept trees 'donated back' following the holiday season, and arrangements will be made to pick up the decorated trees for you.

On Friday and Saturday, November 26 & 27, from 10 am to 5 pm, at the Thanksgiving Weekend Art Fest, several trees will be on display as a "preview" of this innovative event. Silent auction bids may be made at this time with a credit card guarantee. The proceeds of the event will benefit Gualala Arts programs and activities. For more information contact Jan Harris at jan@redwoodcoastchamber.com or 884-1080, or Susan Grenwelge at sgrenwelge@msn.com or 785-9317.