SAN JOSE, Calif. –
The San Jose Earthquakes will dedicate their third-annual Winterfest to victims of the Camp Fire. Taking place at Avaya Stadium this Sunday, Dec. 2, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Quakes will donate all proceeds from the equipment sale and 20 percent of wristband sales to the
North Valley Community Foundation
and Paradise High School soccer teams. The Quakes will also donate equipment to the soccer teams.
The most destructive and deadly wildfire in California history burning through 153,336 acres and destroying the town of Paradise, Calif., the Camp Fire claimed the lives of a least 88 people while 203 remain missing at the time of publishing. The Quakes Foundation previously made a $10,000 donation to the North Valley Community Foundation and will add onto that amount with the money raised at Winterfest.
“We are saddened and humbled by the destruction caused by the Camp Fire and want to help the families and the young soccer players impacted,” said Earthquakes Director of Community Relations Marissa Silver. “We hope that through our Winterfest, we can raise money to provide victims with the resources they need to return to daily life and play soccer again.”
Winterfest will feature 20 tons of snow and holiday-themed activities, including rotating performances, inflatable games, a craft fair, festive beverages and photo opportunities. The two-acre 7UP Epicenter at Avaya Stadium will be transformed into a winter wonderland with snow available for snowballs and snow angels.
For those who want to dress the part of a professional Earthquakes player, team-issued equipment will be sold on a first come, first served basis beginning at 10 a.m. at the Earthquakes Team Store, powered by Gyft. A limited amount of balls, cleats, jerseys, shorts and training gear will be for sale with all proceeds benefitting the North Valley Community Foundation and Paradise High School soccer teams. A merchandise sale will also take place at the team store with a special discount on select items.
General admission to Winterfest is free, and will grant access to the photo opportunities, craft fair and performances. Festival goers can purchase a $25 wristband to play in the snow and on the inflatables, and can reserve specific time for the snow with this link. Five dollars of each $25 wristband will go towards helping Camp Fire victims. Canned goods are also a suggested donation upon entry to the festival and will benefit Second Harvest Food Bank.
