For three decades, Festival of Trees has united talented designers, local businesses, community organizations, and volunteers to create stunning holiday displays while raising critical funds for children with developmental needs. The event has become a treasured tradition throughout the region and was recently recognized in the Best of the Pines competition as First Place Best Fundraiser and Second Place Best Holiday Event.
The celebration begins Nov. 17 with the 30th Anniversary Premier Gala, a semiformal evening featuring cocktails, dinner, entertainment, and an exclusive first look at the Festival before it opens to the public. Gala tickets are available through Nov. 12, and sponsorship opportunities remain available for individuals and businesses.
The Festival officially opens Nov. 18 and runs through Nov. 21, welcoming visitors daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Admission is by monetary donation. Guests can enjoy hundreds of beautifully decorated holiday displays, shop in the Festival Gift Shop, and bid in the silent auction featuring decorated trees, holiday décor, unique experiences, themed gift baskets, and other one-of-a-kind items.
Additional opportunities to support Sandhills Children’s Center include the Festival’s Angel Tree, where donors can purchase classroom supplies, therapy resources, adaptive equipment, and other items that directly benefit children and families served by the Center. Guests may also participate in the Festival raffle, with tickets sold throughout the event and the winning drawing held Saturday evening before the Festival closes.
Festival attendees can purchase exclusive travel experiences through a partnership with AmFund. An AmFund representative will be available at the Premier Gala and during the Festival on Nov. 18 and 19 to showcase travel packages to destinations including Italy, Greece, Scotland, Ireland, Iceland, Spain, and Alaska. Proceeds from trip purchases support the mission of Sandhills Children’s Center while giving travelers the opportunity to plan their next adventure.
The Festival also features several signature events. On Nov. 18, guests can enjoy the popular Girls’ Night Out, an evening of shopping, entertainment by the McKenzie Brothers, and holiday cheer. On Nov. 19, children can participate in Adopt-A-Pal, taking home their choice of a plush polar bear or penguin dressed in an exclusive Festival of Trees vest. Special guest Bunker, mascot of the Fayetteville Woodpeckers, will appear from 5 to 6 p.m. to meet Festival visitors.
Behind every Festival of Trees celebration is a dedicated volunteer committee whose members spend countless hours throughout the year planning and preparing for the event. Many have served for decades, and one has been involved since the very first Festival 30 years ago.
“One of the most rewarding things about Festival of Trees is seeing how it brings our community together year after year,” said Jeanie Eastman, a Festival volunteer since the event’s inception. “We’ve watched this event grow over 30 years, but its purpose has never changed: helping local children thrive while creating holiday memories for families throughout the Sandhills.”
“Thirty years ago, Festival of Trees began as a way to bring our community together during the holiday season while supporting children with special needs,” said Executive Director Dr. Kim Bullard. “Today, it remains a celebration of generosity, creativity, and community spirit. We are incredibly grateful for everyone who has helped make Festival of Trees a cherished tradition for the past three decades.”
Whether attending the Premier Gala, enjoying Girls’ Night Out, supporting the Angel Tree, purchasing raffle tickets, exploring travel opportunities, participating in Adopt-A-Pal, bidding in the silent auction, or simply admiring the displays, visitors will find countless ways to celebrate the season while making a meaningful difference in the lives of children served by Sandhills Children’s Center.
Event Details
30th Annual Festival of Trees
Nov. 18-21
10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily
Admission: Monetary donation
Location:
The Carolina Hotel
80 Carolina Vista Drive
Pinehurst, NC 28374
For Premier Gala tickets, sponsorship opportunities, volunteer information, special event schedules, Adopt-A-Pal registration and additional Festival details, visit www.festivaloftrees.org.
Contributed.
