JEFF GARDENOUR/CFE
The Canterbury Retreat and Conference Center will hold its 35th anniversary dinner on Sunday, June 11.

Guests will sway to the music and smell the aromatic foods of the Caribbean in June when the Canterbury Retreat and Conference Center in Oviedo holds its 35th anniversary dinner.

The Rev. Dr. Jon Davis, executive director of Canterbury Retreat and Conference Center, said preregistration is being taken for the event, which will run from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday, June 11. Patrons will be treated to a Caribbean-themed evening, complete with a steel drum band, silent auction and two-hour dinner.

The Caribbean theme is expected to be a big hit in sunny Central Florida, following previous successful Celtic- and bluegrass-themed dinners.

“It’s a celebration of Canterbury,” Davis said, “its mission and ministry. It will be a backward-looking event, but forward-looking event (as well) to what God is doing on campus.”

Davis said organizers are hoping for a sellout of 175 guests, especially after last year’s overfilled head count of 186. Cost is $35 per person or $500 for a sponsored table of eight, which includes the sponsor’s name in the program and on the table setup.

Open to the public, the event has drawn many prominent Episcopal leaders and area businesses through the years. Past sponsors include the Rotary Club, Citizen’s Bank, and the Kiwanis Club.

This year’s event will have three keynote speakers: Bishop Gregory O. Brewer, Davis, and the Rev. Dr. Steve Brown.

Davis calls the anniversary dinner the “Super Bowl” of Canterbury’s fundraising efforts. This year’s auction is expected to include prizes such as a four-person balloon ride, a wine basket, Disney tickets and more.

“Last year, we raised about $5,000,” Davis said. “This year, our goal is $7,000.”

For more information, call Canterbury at 407-365-5571.