This Mid-Week Article is brought to you by The May Court of St. Catharines!
Christmas Under the Rafters: A Holiday Gala Supporting Women & Children in Niagara
As the holiday season approaches, Niagara’s spirit of generosity grows unmistakably bright. That warmth and community energy are at the heart of this year’s Christmas Under the Rafters gala — an elegant evening hosted by the May Court Club of St. Catharines and held at the breathtaking Stonewall Estates Winery in Lincoln.
Earlier this week, we had a chance to meet with Irene McEvoy, a volunteer with the May Court Club and the Event Chair for Christmas Under the Rafters Gala, along with Alex Floto, Estate Director at Stonewall Estates and part of the family who owns and operates the winery. Speaking with them made one thing abundantly clear: this gala is being built with intention, compassion, and a deep love for the Niagara community.
You can see part of the interview by going to our Instagram!
The May Court Club of St. Catharines: Nearly a Century of Local Impact
The May Court Club of St. Catharines has been a pillar of service since 1935, working to address the needs of women and children across the region. As one of Canada’s oldest women’s service clubs, their mission remains both simple and deeply important:
“To address the needs of our community, primarily those of women and children, through volunteerism and fundraising.”
Throughout their 90 years of service, the May Court Club has:
partnered with over 100 community organizations,
supported more than 175 local causes,
funded nutrition programs, shelters, disability services, youth outreach, and emergency assistance,
and provided direct help to families facing instability and crisis.
During our conversation, it became apparent how crucial this support becomes during winter:
“The holiday months are when many families feel the most pressure. The funds raised through this gala have an immediate and meaningful impact on women and children in Niagara.”
Stonewall Estates: A Family-Owned Niagara Treasure
A short drive from NOTL, in the scenic hills of Lincoln, sits Stonewall Estates — a 120-acre winery, farm, and event space known for its charm, history, and warm hospitality. Originally founded as a family vineyard and orchard, Stonewall has grown into one of Niagara’s most unique destinations, offering stunning waterfront views, forested trails, orchard rows, hop fields, and two iconic century-old barns.
At the centre of operations is Alex Floto, the Estate Director. As a member of the family that owns and runs Stonewall, Alex brings both passion and personal investment into every event the estate hosts.
Reflecting on their partnership with the May Court Club, Alex emphasized The importance of “giving back during the holiday season.”
Stonewall’s role as the Diamond Level Sponsor ensures that the gala is not only stunning, but also maximizes fundraising for the May Court mission!
Christmas Under the Rafters: A Beautiful Evening With Real Purpose
On Saturday, November 29, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Stonewall Estates will open its grand barn for a festive evening filled with community, celebration, and generosity.
Guests can expect:
A curated four-course dinner crafted for the evening
Canapés and cocktails upon arrival
Stonewall wines and local beer
A silent auction featuring items and experiences from across Niagara
Live violin performance by Miriam Cacciacarro
DJ Brittany Rose, bringing energy and warmth to the dance floor
Event photography by Caitlyn Baker
Every detail — the music, the setting, the food, the décor — is designed to create a warm, memorable night that directly supports women and children who rely on the May Court Club’s work.
How to Get Your Tickets
🔗 To Purchase Tickets: Click Here
📧 Contact: [email protected]
A Night of Community, Celebration, and Heart
Christmas Under the Rafters is more than a gala. It’s a reflection of what Niagara does best — coming together to support one another, especially during the holidays. Through the dedication of volunteers like Irene, the generosity of partners like Alex and her family, and the support of the wider community, this evening has the power to change lives.
For those looking to celebrate the season with purpose, this is a night worth marking on the calendar.
PS: A Little Something for Those Who Read to the Very Bottom…
If you’ve made it all the way here — we appreciate you.
NOTL News will be at the gala in person, covering the evening, capturing moments, and celebrating alongside the incredible community that makes events like this possible.
If you spot us, please come say hello! We’d love to meet you, hear your stories, and connect with fellow locals who care about supporting meaningful causes in Niagara.
We hope to see you on the 29th!
Follow the organizers to stay up-to-date on additional information:
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