The fridge is stuffed with leftovers and the Black Friday bruises are healing nicely, so that means that Christmas is around the corner. And what better way to get into the mood than walk through a massive forest of Christmas trees for charity.
The Festival of Trees will be going on at the South Towne Expo Center from Dec. 1 through Dec. 4. The festival will be showcasing over 1,000 displays of trees, wreaths, centerpieces, quilts and playhouses, all of course Christmas themed and ready for the holidays.
The festival will also feature several other attractions. A Gift Boutique will feature handcrafted toys, quilts jewelry and a variety of other great gifts to put under the tree or in the stocking. An entire gingerbread village will be on display for those looking to buy prime real estate and sedate their sweet tooth at the same time. Entertainment from a variety of choral, dancing groups instrumentalists and orchestras will be playing each day.
Kids are also more than welcome at the event. The Kids Korner will have face painting, sand layering, a giant bubble machine, as well as a pile of other activities to get the kids in mind for the holiday. A Small Fry Shop will also be open for children to find the perfect Christmas gifts for mom and dad, and not hurt their poor piggybanks in the process.
All proceeds from the festival will be going directly to Primary Children’s Medical Center. Last year the festival was able to raise over one million dollars, and in its 40 years of existence has managed to raise over $27.5 million for the hospital. The money is always welcome and needed, especially considering Primary Children’s has the seventh highest level of acuity (most critically ill patients) in the nation, and yet charges the lowest per case. Many physicians even donate their expertise for those who are in dire need and can’t pay.
Admission will be $5 at the door for adults and $3 for children ages 2-11; $15 for a family ticket (Good for Wednesday only) which will cover up to six immediate family members. Senior citizen tickets will be $3. Discount tickets are available at all branches of Zions Bank.