Holiday Express, the nonprofit that travels across the New Jersey region to deliver holiday joy to people in need, invites area residents to its benefit concert on December 17 at the iconic Count Basie Center in downtown Red Bank.

Ticket purchases for the benefit show support the Eatontown-based organization’s mission to deliver the “gift of human kindness” to 27,000 children and adults facing mental and physical challenges, serious illness, homelessness, food insecurity, isolation, and other struggles.

Founded by Little Silver musician and restaurateur Tim McLoone in 1993, Holiday Express spreads kindness across the tri-state region, reaching those often forgotten during the holiday season.

The Basie benefit show, presented by sponsor Stillwell-Hansen Inc., is one of the nonprofit’s most significant fundraisers.

Here’s what to expect at the Holiday Express benefit show:

Live Holiday Music - Enjoy a captivating performance by a troupe of 50 talented musicians and singers who will share their unique mix of traditional, gospel and rock’n soul holiday music.

Beloved Costumed Characters - Meet Elmo, the Cookie Monster, the Grinch, Frosty the Snowman, and Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the show begins at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets range from $25 to $125 and can be purchased at https://thebasie.org/events/holiday-express-4/.

Come to the show and help support the Holiday Express "kindness" mission.