The Mercer Island Parks and Recreation Department is holding a holiday concert and auction to raise money to save traditional Island community events.

The “Dessert Before Dinner” event will take place on Sunday, Dec. 16, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at the Community and Event Center.

The department is working to save events such as: Mostly Music in the Park, Summer Celebration, senior lunches, the Christmas tree lighting at Mercerdale Park, the Spring Easter Egg hunt, summertime Funtastic Fridays, Adventure Playground for children and more.

Due to city budget reductions, the Parks and Recreation Department campaign to raise $25,000 for community events has begun each year.

Mercer Island service organizations have stepped up to help, yet the effort has fallen short and is only halfway to its goal of $25,000.

The holiday event is planned to make up the difference.

The event includes a holiday concert and silent auction.

Auction items are needed; those with items for auction are asked to call 275-7609.

Many businesses have already donated. They include:

Acupuncture Assoc., P.S.; All the Best Pet Care; Auto Spa; Bellevue Wellness; Bryan Maruhashi, DDS; DryGuy LLC; Home Key Organization; Great Wolf Lodge; Lolliefluer; Mercer Island Dentistry; Jennifer Strelow, DMD; Mercer Park Dentistry; Mercer Island Florist; Pon Proem; Studio 904; True Value; Woodland Park Zoo; Yo Mercer and Youth Theatre Northwest.

Registration is required, and tickets are $12 per person.

Go to www.myparksandrecreation.com or call 275-7609 to register or learn more.