INNISFAIL – For eight days this month the common area of the Innisfail Library/Learning Centre will be a glowing and loving focal point for this year’s holiday season.
The 4th Annual Innisfail Festival of Trees kicked off Friday, Nov. 22 and runs until Saturday, Nov. 30.
The theme for this year’s festival is Gnome for the Holidays.
“We all like gnomes and everyone felt they were a fun theme for this years festival,” said event organizer Dale Dunham. “This event creates hope for a better and stronger tomorrow by strengthening our community with compassion, kindness, and love.
“We are glad that over the past three years, the Innisfail Festival of Trees has become a tradition for the town of Innisfail and its surrounding area, like many of the holiday traditions held by the families that make up this community.”
The annual free event is a holiday season fundraiser to support the community’s cherished charities, including the Innisfail Christmas Bureau, Innisfail and District Food Bank, and the DQ Angel Tree.
In 2023, event organizers donated more than $9,000 to local charities and programs focused on families, children and seniors. This year the goal is to raise more than $11,000.
“The festival of trees was started in 2021 to provide residents of Innisfail and the surrounding community a place to celebrate the holidays during COVID-19, especially when many were unable to travel to see loved ones,” said Dunham. “It was our way of giving back to the community we cherish and supporting our neighbors who may not have the same opportunities for a joyful holiday season filled with food and gifts.
“As times become more challenging, with rising visits to food banks and support services, community support is crucial,” added Dunham. “We remain committed to helping in every way we can.”
The eight-day festival features 21 beautifully decorated trees, created by talented teams from local businesses, social clubs and community citizens.
Throughout the week citizens can bid on the trees, with the highest bidders taking them home on Saturday, Nov. 30, at 4 p.m.
There will be winners under three categories: Best Overall, Most Holiday Spirit and Most Creative.
The festival’s Rudolph's Raffle will feature more than 30 gift baskets. As well, the 50/50 draw has returned.
Back this year on Nov. 30 is the Artisan and Crafter Holiday Market in the centre’s Community Room from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The market will also feature a Kids Zone.
And new this year is a Family Dance on Saturday, Nov. 23, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., an event supported by the Innisfail Kinettes.
“We are expecting a great turnout based on the positive response we have received,” said Dunham.
