Festival of Trees- Nov 18 and 19
Saturday, November 18th and Sunday, November 19th
Stroll through the hall of trees while enjoying live performances, visit Santa, and check out the holiday market. Support local non-profits by bidding on a decorated tree to take home!
Both days from 10 am – 5 pm. Admission is free but canned goods or Toys for Tots donations are welcome!
Festival of Trees is back! Join us on Saturday and Sunday, November 17 and 18 as we kick off the holiday season with this fun, community event. The event will again be held at Hawkeye Downs in Cedar Rapids. Special thanks to our Presenting Sponsors - Alliant Energy and Cedar Rapids Area Association of Realtors. Due to their support, the Festival of Trees is FREE again this year. We will be accepting Toys for Tots donations or non-perishable canned food items. Last year we donated over 20 tons of canned goods and raised over $11,000 that was donated to local not-for-profits.
The event is open both days from 10am-5pm. As you walk through the hall of trees, vote for your favorite - we will be giving out an award to the People's Choice. If there's one you really love, put your name in for the silent auction. Most trees will be available for purchase with all funds benefiting local non-profits including The Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation, Shoes for Kids and Toys for Tots - help us raise over $12,000 this year. Bidding for trees starts at $50 and we will send you a text if you get outbid. Don't miss this great opportunity to help our community.
Check out the free entertainment on the stage, while you make your way around the space. Seating is limited, so make sure to get there early. We are still seeking groups to perform - if your group is interested in joining us, please contact us at events@thegazette.com.
Then, you're off to the holiday market where you can start your holiday shopping. Merchants will have all types of items available including candles, candy, jewelry and much more. Merchants include:
AM ArtisticAmy's Lil Hair BowsCaptivating CraftsCrazy Good MeatsFunny Face DesignsGet Posh'd with Tracy - Perfectly PoshIlluminationsJamberry NailsJava's Dog ToysLeafFilterLilla RoseLori Anne's CandiesMrs. B'sNext Gen WirelessNielson's Honey FarmNorwexOrigami OwlPampered ChefPink ZebraRevive Family ChiropractorScentsySending Best WishesSew PreciousSt. Vincent De PaulUsborne BooksWalker Family FarmWickwire Chiropractic
Last, but certainly not least, don't miss a visit with Santa. Say hello and take pictures throughout the day with the man himself and the misses. While you're in the North Pole, color a picture for The Gazette's annual coloring contest, write a letter to Santa or put together Snowman garland to take home.