Overview
On Saturday, November 14, 2026, Newman Catholic Schools will celebrate the 39th Winter Wonderland Benefit Auction, and we invite you to be part of a tradition that has been making a difference for Newman Catholic students for nearly four decades.
Winter Wonderland began in 1987 with a group of parents who wanted to do more for their children and their schools. What started with that simple desire to help has grown into Newman Catholic Schools’ largest annual fundraiser, bringing together families, alumni, parishioners, local businesses, and friends in support of our students and educators.
Every gift, ticket and bid helps strengthen the educational experience available to Newman Catholic students. Whether you make a donation, purchase raffle tickets, volunteer, participate in the in person silent auction or join us for the live event, your support helps provide opportunities and resources that make a meaningful difference throughout our schools.
Most importantly, Winter Wonderland is a celebration of the community behind Newman Catholic Schools. Its success has always depended on people who believe in our students and are willing to invest in their future. We hope you’ll join us this November and help continue a tradition that has supported generations of Cardinals.
Saturday,
November 14, 2026
At the Hilton Garden Inn
Doors Open at 6:30 pm
To purchase sponsorships, dinner or general admission tickets, to make a cash donation or to learn more, visit: winterwonderlandauction.com
Presale Raffle Tickets
Take your pick from four presale raffles and you could win everything from tuition and cash to $1,000 in Scrip or the vacation of your choice. Presale raffle orders are due Thursday, November 12, 2026.
- Vacation Choice Raffle: Choose from a Hawaii family getaway, an Italy & Ferraris experience, or a Mediterranean cruise.
- Tuition Raffle: Win one of three tuition credits worth $3,000, $2,000 or $1,000.
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Pick Your Scrip Raffle: Win $1,000 in Scrip gift cards.
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Cash Raffle: Win one of three cash prizes of $2,500, $1,000 or $500.
Presale raffle orders are due Thursday, November 12, 2026.
Ready to Purchase?
Complete the Presale Raffle Order Form below and return it with payment by Thursday, November 12.
How to Purchase:
Completed forms may be mailed with a check to the NCS Advancement Office, 1130 W. Bridge St., Wausau, WI 54401, or dropped off with cash or check at any Newman Catholic Schools office or the Advancement Office. Please do not mail cash.
Ways to Give
Winter Wonderland comes together through the generosity of our community. Whether you would like to donate an auction item, sponsor part of the event, underwrite an expense or make a financial gift, there are many ways to get involved:
- Donate an Item or Experience
Contribute an item, gift card, package, service, or experience for the live or silent auction.
- Sponsor or Underwrite
Support Winter Wonderland through an event sponsorship, underwriting opportunity, or Auction Angel gift.
All donors and sponsors are asked to complete the Donor Form so we can properly record and coordinate all donations, sponsorships and underwriting commitments.
Donation Drop-Off & Pickup
Donations may be delivered by Wednesday, November 4 to Newman Catholic Middle/High School, 1130 W. Bridge Street, Wausau, WI 54401.
To arrange for donation pickup or with any questions, please contact the Advancement & Alumni Office at 715-842-4805 x2012.
Looking for Ideas?
Not sure what to donate or where your support could help? Check out our Wish List below for current auction items, packages, sponsorships and event needs.
Volunteer
Before the doors open and the first guests arrive, there’s a whole lot of work that goes into turning Winter Wonderland into the celebration our community knows and loves.
That’s where you come in! Join fellow Newman Catholic Schools parents, families, alumni, staff and friends as we decorate, set up, welcome guests and tackle all the little things that make a big night possible. There are opportunities before, during and after the event, so whether you have an hour or an entire afternoon to give, there’s a place for you.
Bring a friend. Pick a shift. Come be part of Winter Wonderland!
What to Expect
Before the Event
There are plenty of ways to be part of Winter Wonderland before November 14! Purchase event tickets, try your luck with presale raffles, volunteer, or help make the event possible through a donation or sponsorship.
During the Event
Enjoy an evening filled with great food, great people, and plenty of excitement, including Silent and Live Auctions, raffles, and more! The evening also features Fund-a-Need, which this year will focus on Catholic Faith, Service, and Academics, giving guests the opportunity to come together and make a direct impact across Newman Catholic Schools.