At Kunes Auto & RV Group, we believe that community is the foundation of everything we do. Every dealership, every service, and every customer interaction is rooted in one simple value — people helping people. That’s why we’re proud to spotlight one of southern Wisconsin’s most meaningful and magical traditions: The 531 Fund Christmas Festival.
Formerly known as Santa Cause, The 531 Fund is a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to raising funds and awareness for local charities through creative, family-friendly events. And at the heart of it all each winter is the beloved Christmas Festival — an experience that captures the joy of the season while giving back to the community in unforgettable ways.
A Holiday Tradition That Gives Back
More than just lights and decorations, The Christmas Festival is an event where holiday magic meets local impact.
Hosted alongside the Santa Cruise in the Lake Geneva area, the festival transforms the holiday season into a time of joy, generosity, and togetherness. Visitors step into a wonderland filled with beautifully themed booths, festive music, and the warmth of giving — all while supporting the charities that make a difference right here at home.
Since 2016, The 531 Fund has donated over $1 million to organizations throughout southern Wisconsin, supporting causes that strengthen families, empower children, and enrich local communities. Every twinkling light and every raffle ticket at the Christmas Festival helps fuel that mission.
Inside the Christmas Festival Experience
When guests arrive at The Christmas Festival, they’re greeted by the sounds, sights, and spirit of the holidays — a festive atmosphere unlike any other.
🎄 Themed Charity Booths
Local charities come together to design creative, themed booths that feature unique raffle packages. Guests can purchase tickets and drop them into the booths of their choice for a chance to win amazing prizes — from family experiences to one-of-a-kind gifts.
🎟️ Raffles for a Reason
Every raffle ticket directly supports a local charity. That means visitors aren’t just entering to win — they’re helping fund programs that provide vital resources, education, and support across Walworth County and beyond.
🎅 The Santa Cruise
The magic continues beyond the festival grounds with the enchanting Santa Cruise — a Lake Geneva boat ride that leads passengers to discover Santa’s Secret Hideaway. It’s an experience that delights both children and adults while spreading holiday cheer for a cause.
✨ Community Connection
The festival brings together families, local businesses, and volunteers in a shared celebration of generosity and joy. It’s proof that when a community unites for good, amazing things happen.
The Impact Behind the Celebration
In 2025 alone, The 531 Fund donated $135,556.08 to seven incredible organizations making a real difference in southern Wisconsin:
- Aurora Health Care Foundation
- Boys & Girls Club of Walworth County
- Inspiration Ministries / Inspired
- Norman B. Barr Camp
- SMILES
- Water Safety Patrol
- Camp Timber-lee
Every one of these charities benefits directly from the energy, attendance, and generosity of those who participate in events like The Christmas Festival. Each ticket, each donation, and each shared smile helps fund programs that empower families, protect children, promote health, and strengthen the community.
A Local Legacy of Giving
What began as Santa Cause has now evolved into The 531 Fund, named after the first three digits of our local zip codes — a reminder that the mission begins right here at home.
Over the past several years, the Fund has become a cornerstone of community generosity, raising over $1 million for more than 20 local organizations. But the Christmas Festival remains its signature event — a true symbol of hope, unity, and giving during the most wonderful time of the year.
At Kunes, we’re inspired by the way The 531 Fund blends celebration and service, creating experiences that bring people together while supporting vital causes in our communities.
Mark Your Calendar: November–December 2025
The 2025 Christmas Festival returns this November and December, bringing new displays, exciting prizes, and the same heartwarming mission. Whether you’re attending for the first time or continuing a family tradition, it’s an event you’ll never forget.
✨ Dates: November–December 2025
📍 Location: Lake Geneva area, alongside the Santa Cruise
🎁 Learn More
🎄 Follow Along
Why Kunes Supports The 531 Fund
At Kunes Auto & RV Group, giving back is more than a goal — it’s who we are. Supporting organizations like The 531 Fund aligns perfectly with our mission to build stronger communities through service, generosity, and compassion.
From our dealerships across the Midwest to events like the Christmas Festival, we’re proud to stand alongside partners who share our values of faith, family, and giving. Because when we invest in our communities, everyone wins.
Join the Celebration. Be Part of the Change.
The 531 Fund Christmas Festival is more than a holiday event — it’s a movement of kindness, creativity, and community. Every visit, every raffle, and every joyful moment helps create a brighter future for families across southern Wisconsin.
This season, join us in celebrating what truly matters: the power of giving and the spirit of togetherness.
✨ The 531 Fund Christmas Festival — Where joy meets generosity.
