BENTON TOWNSHIP – Those who shoulder the burden of holiday party planning for their office, service organization, group of friends, or extended family can breathe a sigh of relief this year.

The Mendel Center at Lake Michigan College is handling the details with an event ideal for groups looking to share the spirit of the season, businesses celebrating a job well done with their employees, as well as those who want to spend a relaxing evening with friends or that special someone.

On Tuesday, Dec. 19, the Mix and Mingle Holiday Party gets things started at 5:30 p.m. in Grand Upton Hall. The ready-made event comes complete with food, beverages, and good times, taking the work out of party planning.

A buffet awaits guests at the Mendel Center, located 30 minutes from Niles and 40 minutes from the Kalamazoo and South Bend areas on the Lake Michigan College campus at 2755 E. Napier Ave., Benton Harbor, with featured selections including chef-carved ham and turkey, a deluxe salad bar, mashed potato station, side dishes and dessert. Coffee and tea service are included with dinner.

Guests may enjoy a full cash bar with a wide selection of Michigan wines, craft beers and mixed drinks throughout the party. Partygoers can also expect special entertainment surprises.

Following dinner, guests can take the short walk inside The Mendel Center to the Mainstage where Bryan Lubeck is back to host Rejoice 2017 – A Tapestry of Holiday Music at 7:30 p.m. Last year’s live holiday concert brought folks to their feet. This year builds on that momentum with fresh arrangements of old holiday favorites and new musical collaborations.

Mix and Mingle Holiday Party tickets are $25 per person. Rejoice 2017 – A Tapestry of Holiday Music tickets start at $24, with discounts available for groups of 10 or more, as well as for seniors, veterans, students, and Mainstage Series members. Group dinner and show packages start at $43 per person. Valet parking will be available for $3 per vehicle beginning at 5:30 pm on the Grand Upton Hall side of the facility, and beginning at 6:30 pm on the Mainstage side through the end of the performance.

Tickets for both events may be purchased at www.TheMendelCenter.com or through The Mendel Center box office at (269) 927-8700, option 1, weekdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Those wanting to purchase group dinner and show packages should contact the box office for discounts. Table reservations for groups of 10 or more may be requested by speaking with a box office agent.