The Crimson Moon Café in Dahlonega is hosting a unique and creative fundraiser on Friday. The café will play stage to anyone who wants to sing a Christmas carol in honor of someone who has suffered from or been taken by cancer.

Crimson Moon owner Dana LaChance said after losing her mother to cancer in 2004, she decided to do a benefit for cancer research.

Starting in 2005, The Crimson Moon has hosted a Christmas-themed benefit to support the American Cancer Society every year. The only exception came in 2009, when LaChance herself was recovering from surgery to remove cancer.

"Last year, we had a last minute cancellation, and I wasn’t able to put together a major concert. So, we decided to do an open mic event and let people get up and sing in honor someone they know who was affected by cancer," LaChance said.

"We had a really good turnout. We were just slammed with people who wanted to get on stage. I was really impressed, especially considering it was a last-minute thing," she said.

LaChance said "Music Man" Rick Harris will be on stage playing background piano and guitar, and participants can sign up early to secure a spot.

"You don’t really have to be able to sing, because it’s more about just getting up there and honoring someone. We’ve had people who would ask others to sing a song for them, so that’s always an option," she said.

Those wishing to participate can email gigs@thecrimsonmoon.com with their name, phone number, the song they want to sing and who it’s in honor of. Just include "Carols for Christmas Lineup Request" in the subject line with a day’s notice.

"Last year, we raised about $600, which was just incredible considering again that it was last minute. We hope to beat it this year," LaChance said.

The "Christmas Carols for Cancer" benefit will take place from 8-10 p.m. on Friday. A $10 donation per seat is appreciated, with proceeds going to Lumpkin County’s American Cancer Society.