In a smaller-sized city like Humboldt, it's always extra exciting to have a big event to get all gussied up for; find a babysitter, buy a new outfit or just round up your friends and head out for the night.
If any of this appeals to you, then mark down March 8 in your calendar.
Humboldt's Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) branch is having its annual gala that evening, where all money raised will go toward the 562 various projects that the organization is undertaking within the 100 kilometer radius of Humboldt.
"This is a different event," said Dave Atamanchuk, conservation specialist for Humboldt's branch. "It's a fancy night to get dressed up for a night on the town."
By hosting the dinner, called the Du Banquet and Fundraising Auction, not only is DUC hoping to raise funds but also create awareness for the group.
"We really want to encourage people to join DUC," Atamanchuk said. "We're always looking for volunteers. Some have now moved away, so it's harder to get these projects off the ground when we have less help."
DUC is looking for committee members to help steer along initiatives in the Humboldt's area, like the large Reineke plot of land near Carmel, former farm land and other wetlands which are being converted into preserved land for rotational grazing, and as healthy habitats for water fowl and wildlife.
"We've secured 398,000 acres of land," Atamanchuk said.
A part of that success comes from the 29 years that DUC has hosted a fundraising gala; in that time span, Humboldt's branch has raised $555,000 to fund these projects and given by the details of the upcoming night, it's no surprise that the turnout is usually huge.
Taking place at the Uniplex's Jubilee Hall, cocktail hour starts at 6 p.m., with the banquet starting at 7.
DUC usually rotates between Johnny's Bistro and the Bella Vista (BV) Inn each year to do the catering for the night; this year, it's the BV's turn.
"Both restaurants always do such a fantastic job," Atamanchuk said. "The food is just really delicious."
Both a live and silent auction will take place, along with raffles but an even more fun part will be the so-called "mystery game" taking place later in the evening, which Atamanchuk said is always a hoot.
Corporate-sponsored tables are available, so if your business is interested in purchasing some tickets for the evening, contact local DUC members.
As for the general public, tickets are available to be purchased at the Humboldt Thrifty Mart on Main Street.
For more information on ticket prices or just general questions, contact Humboldt's DUC office at 306-682-1650.
