Festival of Trees - A Feast for the Eyes

Every year for the past 25 + years, The Festival of Trees has operated in the city of Edmonton as an annual fundraiser for the University of Alberta Hospital.  The last two years I have volunteered as a tree guardian and an assistant in the Children's World Activities.  The goal of this year's fundraiser was to fund state-of the art-technology to support the brain sciences program at the University of Alberta Hospital.

Admission to the event is minimal and allows access to viewing of over 100 trees, gingerbread houses, uniquely designed and decorated cakes, various Christmas displays and live entertainment.

"Created in 1985, the Festival began with a display of 15 decorated trees in the University of Alberta Hospital itself. Guided by 9 volunteers, this Festival of Trees raised $15,164.


Since then, the Festival has grown to become the largest annual event held at the Shaw Conference Centre with attendance of more than 35,000 people. Currently, 25 committees organize and support all aspects of the Festival."

Since 1985, the Festival has raised over $12 Million benefitting the hospital, including the Stollery Children's Hospital and the Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute.

The following photos were all taken just outside the main hall.  It appears the theme was living in a winter wonderland.  I love the table setting!! (scroll down)

Looks cozy, doesn't it?

This tablescape was stunning!!  I think my daughter has another of this from a better angle.  If so, I will post it later with the photos from the interior of the hall.  You've got to see these trees!!!!