There’s a moment every year — right when the Midwest chill settles in and folks start dusting off their favorite cozy sweaters — when you can almost feel the holidays hum to life. Twinkle lights pop up around the Lake of the Ozarks, the seasonal bustle begins, and here at Wobbly Boots, the restaurant transforms into something truly magical: the Gala of Trees.
If you’ve never experienced it, picture a warm, glittering forest of decorated Christmas trees and one-of-a-kind wreaths, filling our space with sparkle, color, and holiday joy. Every tree and wreath is donated, decorated with heart, and displayed for guests to admire and bid on — all to raise money for children’s charities in the Lake of the Ozarks area.
It’s holiday cheer with purpose.
It’s community coming together.
And it’s one of our favorite traditions of the year.
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A Seasonal Tradition Rooted in Giving
From November 12–22, 2025, Wobbly Boots becomes home to a winter wonderland. Sure, the hickory smoke never takes a break — that will always be our signature scent — but for these ten days, the aroma of slow-smoked BBQ mixes with the warm glow of Christmas lights, filling the restaurant with a little extra magic.
What makes the Gala of Trees special isn’t just the décor, or even the creativity behind each design. It’s the heart behind it. Local businesses, families, groups, and individuals put time, talent, and love into making trees and wreaths that bring joy — not only to the people who take them home, but to the kids who directly benefit from the funds raised.
When you walk through Wobbly Boots during the Gala, you’ll see:
• Families pointing out their favorite tree themes
• Friends taking photos and soaking up the holiday spirit
• Guests bidding generously because they know their dollars stay local
• Folks who make this event part of their yearly holiday tradition
It’s festive, it’s joyful, and it’s community at its finest.
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Tree & Wreath Auction: Bid With Your Heart (and Your Holiday Style)
Every tree and wreath displayed during the Gala is up for auction, and trust us — the creativity gets better every year.
You’ll find:
• Classic, elegant trees dripping in gold and silver
• Rustic lodge-style wreaths perfect for Lake life décor
• Whimsical designs full of color and personality
• Themed trees that come with decorations and gifts
• Artistic, handcrafted pieces that could be the centerpiece of any holiday home
Whether you’re looking to make a statement in your living room, surprise someone with a fully decorated tree, or simply support a meaningful cause, the auction gives you plenty of ways to join in.
And best of all, every bid — big or small — goes straight to local children’s charities right here in the Lake area.
This event isn’t just festive.
It makes a real difference.
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Dine, Sip, and Stroll Through a Winter Wonderland
While you’re here admiring the trees, the Wobbly Boots menu is in full swing. Whether you’re stopping by for lunch or settling in for a relaxed evening meal, you can enjoy all your favorites while wandering through the sparkling displays.
There’s something especially cozy about pairing hickory-smoked comfort food with holiday surroundings. Think:
• Tender ribs that fall right off the bone
• Juicy brisket with that perfect smoke ring
• Smoked turkey and chicken that taste like home
• Pit beans, coleslaw, and our famous sides
• And of course, desserts that feel like winter warmth in every bite
It’s the perfect backdrop for holiday memories — whether you’re on a family outing, a friends’ night out, or a quiet dinner date surrounded by glittering lights.
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Why the Gala of Trees Matters
At its core, the Gala of Trees is about kids — kids right here in our own community. Every tree donated, every wreath designed, and every bid placed contributes to helping local children and supporting programs that make a real impact.
This event helps:
• Brighten the holidays for families in need
• Support charitable initiatives throughout the Lake area
• Provide resources, care, and joy to children who need it most
And the best part?
Everything raised stays local.
It helps the very families who live, work, and grow alongside us.
That’s why this event is so close to our hearts.
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Visit Us and Experience the Magic Before It’s Gone
The Gala of Trees runs through November 22, 2025, so there’s still time to come by, walk through the displays, cast a bid or two, enjoy a meal, and celebrate the season of giving.
Here’s what to remember:
🎄 Gala of Trees
📅 November 12–22, 2025
📍 Wobbly Boots
💛 All proceeds benefit children’s charities in the Lake of the Ozarks area
📞 For questions or details, contact Christy Janssen: 217-779-2768
Whether you’re feeling festive, generous, hungry, or all of the above, this event is the perfect way to kick off your holiday season.
Come see the magic.
Come support the kids.
Come share the spirit of the season with us at Wobbly Boots — where community and comfort meet under the glow of twinkling lights.