WHAT IS THE FESTIVAL OF TREES?

The Festival of Trees was created in 2008 by We Care In the Name of Christ as a way raise funds and awareness in order to provide for families in need in Southwest Michigan. It is also a free holiday event for all to enjoy, both local families and visitors alike. The We Care Festival of Trees kicks off the holiday season for South Haven and the surrounding area by transforming the entire lower level of South Haven’s City Hall into a Christmas winter wonderland.

There are over 25 designer-decorated trees on display, as well as 24” wreaths and 75 2' trees decorated by our local elementary age children.  These beautiful trees are then auctioned off during the week-long event.  The basic trees are unlit, of uniform design in three sizes: 4 foot, 6 foot and 7 ½ foot.  Tree sponsors and decorators provide all the lights and decorations and, after the festival closes, volunteers deliver the trees to the winner's home.  Trees not auctioned will be placed where they can be enjoyed by families who don't have a Christmas tree.

The festival is open daily to the public from Friday, November 26 through December 4, 2010.  The “wonderland” experience is enhanced by a plethora of entertainment and activities throughout the Festival.  It begins with a Parade, open viewing of the trees and "winter wonderland", and pictures with Santa (at a minimal cost).  As the Festival continues, a silent auction is conducted for trees and decorations, along with fun, holiday inspired events for children and adults alike. 

The Festival of Trees is a community coordinated event designed to raise funds for the clearinghouse operation of We Care I.N.C. and seeks to create an opportunity to keep the 38 different We Care ministries in the community conscience.  These ministries, coordinated by We Care “Central”, are conducted and/or supported by 39 churches in the greater South Haven, Bangor, and Covert areas.

CLICK TO SEE THE FESTIVAL OF TREES CALENDAR!

PARTICIPATION OPPORTUNITIES

Businesses and groups sponsor, design and decorate trees and wreaths that are sold at silent auction during the festival week. Area schools participate by decorating 2’ trees that are sold at the auction. Volunteers decorate City Hall, act as “hosts and hostesses” during the event activities, become Santa for a few hours, and perform a large number of tasks to operate this festive event. 

In addition to the above, there is the incalculable contribution of setting the stage for success during one of the largest commercial events of the year, as well as promoting public good will.  Finally, sponsors will have contributed effectively to the well being of hurting and needful families in the community… neighbors to all of us.

VIEWING HOURS

2010 Festival of Trees Open Viewing Hours:

THIS IS A FREE EVENT!  No Admission Fee!

Friday, Nov. 26th:  7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 27th: 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

AT A GLANCE: Festival of Trees Calendar

SPECIAL EVENT SCHEDULE...

Festival of Trees 2010

“Hometown Holiday”

November 26th – December 4th

Friday November 26th 6:30pm – Santa Claus is Coming to Town Parade

            Sponsored by Village Market – on Phoenix St. from Kalamazoo to City Hall, Welcome Santa to town, enjoy hot chocolate on the lawn of City Hall and visit the Festival of Trees where you can personally deliver your letter to Santa!

Saturday November 27th 9:30-10:30am – Breakfast with Santa

            Sponsored by Honor Credit Union – Yummy eats, sit with Santa and enjoy breakfast from the North Pole, share your wishes with Santa and do a craft! $6/child pre-registration required

Saturday November 27th 1:00-4:00pm – Lego ® Artist Challenge

            Sponsored by Captain Nemo’s – Build your Lego ® holiday creation at home and bring it to the festival for display and judging!  $5/entry for contest rules visit www.wecare-inc.org

Sunday November 28th 2:00-3:30 – My Friend and Me Tea

            A very special holiday “tea” with tasty treats and story telling, special dance performance by Shoreline Dance Academy and more!  Put on your holiday finest – bring your favorite doll, action figure or teddy bear and join us! $5/child pre registration required!

Wednesday December 1st – 11:30-1:00 – Senior Social

            Sponsored by Amicarelli Vineyard – Luncheon and Live entertainment for ages 55 and up!  Register by calling the We Care office at 637-4342, at the Senior Center or with Casco Senior Services. $5/person.

Friday December 3rd – 6:00 – 9:00 – Parents Night Out

              Enjoy dinner and shopping in downtown South Haven while we entertain your children!  Drop them off at Festival of trees for a movie, popcorn and juice, activities and games! P.J.’s Optional!  $6/child – ages 3-12.

Saturday December 4th – 5:00-8:00pm – Hometown Taste

            Enjoy 3 hours of live music while you taste the specialty of the house from 10 local restaurants and caterers – it’s the final hours of bidding with tree and wreath winners announced at 8pm! SEE THE FLIER BY CLICKING HERE!