The Festival of Trees is a tradition that dates back to the early 1970's. It is not known exactly when and where this fundraising program began, but it is now held in over two hundred cities throughout the United States and Canada.
Every year the Festival of Trees is held to benefit a local children's charity. Many of these charities are Children's Hospitals and medical clinics, but they can also be for the local Boys and Girls Club or other non-profit organization in the city where the festival is held.
There are usually two or three preview events leading up to the big day. These may include dessert tasting, tree viewing or a luncheon. On the day of the Festival of Trees people are able to purchase the tree they want. The money they pay for the tree will go to the charity. The tree may also come with place settings, a wreath, or other decorations and ornaments to decorate your entire home.
Each tree and its accessories are based on a theme. Some popular themes are the Nutcracker, Candyland, and Sugar Plum Fairies. There are also some more generic themes that have colors not typically associated with Christmas or winter holidays. Some trees are full sized, about six feet tall, and other tress are table top size. It is best to attend the preview events and see which tree you like the best. Then you can return on the actual day of the Festival of Trees and purchase the one you want.
