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Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Festival of Trees

The Festival of Trees was inspired over 40 years ago by a group of 15 women from along the Wasatch Front.  These women were challenged to find a way to raise funds for Primary Childrens Hospital.
They searched for one project they could devote all their efforts on.  That project was inspired when one of the members attended a Christmas boutique featuring small, decorated Christmas trees, centerpieces, and Christmas decorations.  They expanded the concept to include full-sized decorated Christmas trees, a gift boutique, and a sweet shop.  
 

That first year, there were approximately 60 trees for display and sale.  To everyone's surprise and delight, $47,000 was raised!  Over the years, it has blossomed into a forest of more than 700 trees, a gift boutique featuring handmade articles, a sweet shop filled with freshly made candies and baked goods, a display of wreaths and door decorations, centerpieces, gingerbread houses, and backyard playhouses.  There is also Santa, activities for children, hot scones and sweet rolls, and continuous live entertainment. In all, the Festival spans over 220,000 square feet of display space.
 
Perhaps the greatest phenomenon of all is that everything is donated.  The trees are decorated and purchased by individuals, families, organizations, businesses, and church groups.  In addition, others generously donate items to fill the shops.  Businesses provide the paper and printing of posters and tickets.  Corporations offer their covered trucks and drivers to help deliver the trees, and so much more!  Thousands of people join efforts by contributing countless hours and means to give “A Gift of Love" to children in need.  In 2011, the Festival raised $1,655,931.40 for children at Primary Children's Medical Center.

November 28-December 1, 2012
10:00 am-10:00 pm daily
South Towne Expo Center
9575 South State Street
Sandy, Utah


TICKETS:

At the door -- $5.00 for adults; $3.00 for children ages 2-11; 

Wednesday Family Day $15.00
(up to 6 immediate family members).  

Discount Tickets -- $4.00 for adults; $2.50 for children (available at most branches of Zions Bank).

Senior Citizens -- $4.00 

check this link for other ways to buy tickets