BETHEL — The Bethel Historical Society’s 2010 Annual Fund Campaign, which continues through Dec. 31, has a goal of $53,000.

In 2009,  donors contributed more than $48,000 to the fund. This year’s goal represents a 10 percent increase, and donations totaling more than $37,000 have already been raised.

Tax deductible gifts to the society may be sent to P.O. Box 12, Bethel, ME 04217. For more information, call 800-824-2910 or e-mail [email protected].

The society’s 2010 New Year’s celebration will take place from 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, Dec. 31. The first event of the evening will be a community potluck supper from 5 to 6:30 in the exhibit hall of the Dr. Moses Mason House, 14 Broad St.  Those attending should bring a salad, hot dish or dessert to share.

Following the supper, there will be a dragon parade for children around the village common beginning at 7 p.m.; from 6:30 to 8:30 there will be a candlelight open house in the 1813 residence of Dr. Moses and Agnes Straw Mason. From 7 to 8:30, there will be several performances in the exhibit hall by the Senior Players, followed by refreshments and a sing-along with Lynn Arizzi at the piano.

An opportunity to roast marshmallows in the yard between the Mason and Robinson houses will also be offered all evening. The New Year’s event is free, but anyone wishing to make a donation may do so.

A 20 percent-off sale at the museum shop continues Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. through the end of December. Located on the first floor of the O’Neil Robinson House, the shop is stocked with books, gifts and unique items. All purchases help support the society’s programs, exhibits and publications. The sale also applies to items listed on the Web site, www.bethelhistorical.org.