On Thursday, December 10 at 6:30 p.m., Tryon Fine Arts Center will kick off the holiday season with a party that will feature local merchants selling gifts to benefit TFACs day to day operations.

We are thrilled to support the local merchants and artisans and&bsp; give them a chance to display and sell their wonderful wares at our fundraiser, said Stuart Evans, co chair for the event. Our generous merchants are donating back a percentage of the profits to benefit the local art community, added Evans.

The 2009 Ultimate Gift Gallery merchants are: Vines and Stuff, Accents on Main, Kathleens Simply Irresistible Gallery and The Farm House. Jewelry by Holly Tyson, Victoria Jetton Design and Fredericks Design Studio and clothing by PJs Fashions.

Shoppers will also have silent auction items to bid on, from weekend adventures in a Manhattan apartment, a trip to Charleston, to BMW Driving School excitement and more. Stocking stuffers and Morris the Horse Christmas tree ornaments will all be for purchase.

The Ultimate Holiday Party will also feature Jim Peterman and his band along with guest vocalist Suzy Kocher. Festive foods and libations will be served.

Contact TFAC for more information and to reserve your spot on the Ultimate Guest list. Call 828-859-8322 ext. 213.