Festival of Trees Celebrates Holiday Spirit
Families, seniors and the public are invited to get into the Christmas spirit during the 16th annual Festival of Trees which begins Friday at Vancouver Island University (VIU).
More than 50 decorated trees have transformed VIU’s upper cafeteria at the Nanaimo campus into a colourful winter wonderland.
“The Festival trees this year are simply amazing,” says VIU special events co-ordinator Renee Bohun. “Each tree is unique. The creativity that goes behind each design is really something to see.”
Families with young children are invited to visit the Festival during Family Days Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 20 and 21, from noon to 5 pm. Festivities include live entertainment, refreshments and treats (by donation), Santa photos, and an array of children’s activities.
Christmas shoppers can find unique gifts at a Holiday Craft Fair presented by Campus Recreation in conjunction with Family Days. An online auction is already underway for distinctive products and services that could come in handy for the season or other occasions.
Public and Seniors Day is Saturday, Nov. 27. also features live entertainment and seasonal treats.
Raffle tickets for most of the decorated designer Christmas trees will be available for purchase throughout the Festival. With more than 200 volunteers, the Festival of Trees is the largest community fundraising event held by VIU’s Office of Development and Alumni. Proceeds support student awards, scholarships and bursaries.
One of the most popular events, Friday’s Festival of Trees Luncheon has sold out. The Festival of Trees Gala on Friday, Nov. 26, is close to selling out. Tickets are $175 (Charitable portion: $100) for a four-course menu prepared by the Vancouver Island University Culinary Arts program with service by the Hospitality Management program.
All Festival activities take place in Building 300 (upper cafeteria) at Vancouver Island University.
Admission is by donation. Free parking is available on site during all Festival events courtesy of Robbins Parking. VIU’s upper cafeteria is wheelchair accessible.
Admission is by donation. Free parking is available on site during all Festival events courtesy of Robbins Parking. VIU’s upper cafeteria is wheelchair accessible.
Was there last night and there was THE MOST AMAZING gingerbread house I have ever seen it was that Halloween Christmas movie theme where that Skeleton guy becomes Santa. I have to tell you I honestly thought the little man was made of plastic but whoever made this molded EVERYTHING by hand it is A MUST SEE!!!!!
ReplyDeleteOMG you saw that thing too??? I saw it this morning that thing is so cool! It's my favorite movie!
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