Idea Fair
Bonfire on the Green
How has this idea enhanced your club's operation, etc.?
Bonfire on the Green was inspired by the tradition of bonfires on the levees of New Orleans, which are said to guide Papa Noël on his Christmas journey. This festive event featured a glowing, Christmas tree-shaped bonfire, live music by Chad Fisher from St. Paul and the Broken Bones and his jazz quartet, and New Orleans street food inspired cuisine. The event offered a refreshing, family-friendly twist on traditional country club celebrations like Santa brunches or formal holiday gatherings. Set against the backdrop of our stunning mountain views, it brought members and families together in a relaxed outdoor setting, where they could share laughter, good company, and the cozy glow of the fire.
How was this idea implemented, and what have been the club members' reactions?
The course maintenance and landscaping teams came together to create the bonfire, using logs salvaged from the club's course debris piles collected over the past few months. In just one day, they expertly assembled the structure, ensuring its safety by consulting with local firemen and researching the iconic NOLA Bonfires on the Levee. The event setup was a true labor of love, featuring street food, a stage for live jazz performances, and festive decorations, all coming together for a one-of-a-kind outdoor celebration. Members were captivated by the bonfire’s design and the event’s connection to the New Orleans tradition. Responses were overwhelmingly positive, with Members excited to see where this event can go in the future. Many expressed excitement about making Bonfire on the Green a recurring holiday tradition.

About the author
David Porter