FAYETTEVILLE -- More than 9,400 people visited the pop-up bar Holidaze at the Walton Arts Center this holiday season, and money raised from the 40-day event helped support nonprofits and hospitality workers, according to a news release.
The bar was created by Hannah Withers and Ben Gitchel of Maxine's Tap Room and Leverett Lounge, and with Richard Gathright.
"We felt honored to be invited into such a large and beautiful location, to work with the amazing staff at Walton Arts Center," Withers said. "We are thrilled that even in the midst of a pandemic, we were able to align with our original mission of giving back to our community, and we were able to hire event and hospitality workers who obviously need employment, all while creating a place of cheer to end this indescribable year."
Patrons bought 928 cocktails, raising $9,280 that will be distributed evenly between the Fayetteville Independent Restaurant Alliance, Northwest Arkansas Equality, Peace at Home Family Shelter and Roots Festival's Meals for Musicians, according to the release.
The Fayetteville Independent Restaurant Alliance's annual egg nog competition raised $800 for the the organization. The money will be used "to provide immediate financial release to local hospitality professionals," according to the release.
The Walton Arts Center's Ghost Light Recovery Fund, which helps the arts center compensate for lost revenue and continue its programs, will receive $30,000.
Twenty-two hospitality workers were hired, along with 30 event staff and seven artists or groups that provided entertainment, according to the release.