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 to not only raise funds and awareness to provide for families in need in Southwest Michigan, but to also have 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 fairyland of beauty.

There are over 40 designer-decorated trees are on display, as well as wreaths and 2' trees.  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 5, 2010.  The “fairyland” 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 Clearing House operation of We Care I.N.C. and seeks to create an opportunity to keep the 36 different We Care ministries in the community conscience.  These ministries, coordinated by We Care “Central”, are conducted and/or supported by 40 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 in decorating 2’ trees that are sold at the auction. Volunteers decorate City Hall, act as “hosts and hostesses” during the event activities, manage the Gingerbread Café, become Santa for a few hours, and preform a large number of tasks necessary to operate a public event. 

In addition to the above, there is the incalculable contribution of setting the stage for success during the largest commercial event 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:

THIS IS A FREE EVENT!  No Admission Fee!

            Friday, Nov. 27th……….Parade and Open Viewing

                 

AT A GLANCE: Festival of Trees Calendar

EVENT SCHEDULE

Friday, Nov. 26th                 

• 6:30 pm - Parade
•     7:00 – 9:00 pm - Open Viewing, Bidding Begins

Saturday, Nov. 27th

• Breakfast with Santa
• Lego Challenge

Sunday, Nov. 28th

• My Friends and Me Tea

Saturday, Dec. 4th

• Hometown Taste
• Festival of Trees Ends