It has become a holiday tradition, for animal lovers, local famous artists and holiday guests alike.

It is the 17th Annual Starlight Auction for the Animal Refuge Center (ACR) here participants participate in one of the biggest fundraiser in the area to support the Animal Refuge Center (ARC), to benefit the 22-plus sanctuary in North Fort Myers.

Famous local artists come out, as well as all the pet lovers to support the cause.

ARC will be holding the 17th Annual Starlight Auction at Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort and Spa beginning at 6 p.m. Saturday, November 26. Guests will enjoy a silent and live auction, dinner, dessert and a complimentary cocktail.

It is also a chance for many to break up the holiday guest invasion, with a great night on a Saturday after the traditional Thursday holiday, said organizer Betty Hughes.

“There will be spectacular food and auction items, nd a chance to be pampered at the Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort and Spa to benefit orphaned pets.”

There will be special room rates for participants.

“Highlighting the live auction will be an original painting from Darryl Pottorf, wo South African Photographic Safari Trips via Zulu Nyala, and a stunning bronze statue by Laran Ghiglieri,” Hughes said.

“Our theme this year is ‘Pets will shine’ and that will include a very special guest of honor – a special needs pet.”

Also offered will be highly desirable artwork by Lynne Loshbaugh and Nancy Colby, wood carvings by Luke Andrews, stunning “bling” by Cedar Chest Fine Jewelry, Congress Jewelers and Lily & Co, gift certificates to fine restaurants and trips to local favored destinations.

In total more than 200 items are available for bidding.

Tickets are $75 per person, which includes admission, dinner, dessert and complimentary cocktail. To order tickets, contact Betty Hughes at (239) 841-0810 or by email at: bettyhughes@comcast.net. Last year’s auction brought in more than $172,000 for ARC which is the largest no-kill shelter/sanctuary in Southwest Florida.

For more information visit AnimalRefugeCenter.com or call Hughes at 841-0810 or by email at: bettyhughes@comcast.net.

ARC is the largest no-kill shelter/sanctuary in Southwest Florida. Incorporated in 1988, Animal Refuge Center is a not-for-profit animal welfare society, dedicated to caring for all homeless animals brought to its care at its 22-plus acre sanctuary in North Fort Myers. The sanctuary houses 36 canine lodges, a Canine Training Center, a Cat Adoption Center, 16 feline facilities, and is home to more than 340 cats and 60 dogs.