FORT MCMURRAY – The Northern Lights Regional Health Foundation is preparing to welcome more than 9,000 visitors to its largest annual fundraiser as the Festival of Trees returns to MacDonald Island Park from Nov. 13 to 15.
The three-day Christmas celebration, presented by Suncor, features decorated Christmas trees, live entertainment, family activities and fundraising events, with proceeds supporting local healthcare programs, services and equipment.
The festival begins Friday, Nov. 13, with tree viewing and a silent auction in Winter Wonderland, presented by Canadian Natural Resources Limited, followed by the Ugly Christmas Sweater Party, presented by CEDA.
Saturday, Nov. 14, and Sunday, Nov. 15, feature Santa’s Village, the Teddy Bear Hospital and community concerts showcasing local singers and dancers. Sunday morning also includes story time with Santa.
Admission to Winter Wonderland is by donation, with no minimum contribution required.
The Festival of Trees Gala, presented by Suncor, takes place Saturday evening, Nov. 14, and features a live auction of more than 23 decorated Christmas trees, each accompanied by a unique auction package.
Sunday’s events, Nov. 15, include two popular family celebrations, the Super Mom Hero Son Ball, presented by Sunbelt and Miller, and the Daddy Daughter Sugar Plum Fairy Ball, presented by APE.
Vanessa MacNevin, CEO of the Northern Lights Regional Health Foundation, says the festival has become an annual tradition for many Wood Buffalo families.
“One of my favorite parts of Festival of Trees is seeing families come back year after year. Some come to see Santa, some come to watch their kids perform, and others make a tradition of volunteering together,” MacNevin said.
“I love that a weekend people look forward to all year also helps us improve healthcare close to home.”
The festival also brings together volunteers, local businesses, sponsors and donors from throughout the region, while providing opportunities for local performers to showcase their talents.
All funds raised through the Festival of Trees remain in the community, supporting the foundation’s efforts to improve healthcare equipment, programs and services at the Northern Lights Regional Health Centre and throughout Wood Buffalo.
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