By SHANNON BARNES
The Progress
The 18th annual Festival of Trees will be held at the Old Logandale School this weekend. The festival will kick off on Thursday and Friday November 19-20 from 3-7pm and continue on Saturday November 21 from 9am-5pm.
The Festival of Trees is a fundraising event for the Old Logandale School Historic and Cultural Society (OLSHACS). Local businesses and families decorate Christmas trees and donate them to be sold to festival-goers during the event.
The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced new challenges this year. However, the committee and board of volunteers have been working hard to ensure that this event is fun and safe for all who attend.
“There will be some new and improved changes to the festival this year,” said OLSHACS Executive Director Robin Maughan. “We want everyone to join us for a fun start to the holiday season.”
Most trees are decorated with a theme and they range in size from as little as 12 inches to as big as 12 feet tall. This year, there will be a baseball-themed tree, a tool-themed tree, and a tree with a train going around the middle of it.
“The trees are very creative,” Maughan said. “We were so excited to see that there were so many new families and businesses donating this year. We also love and always look forward to all of our regular donations too.”
There will be a silent auction for each tree as well as many other products that have been donated. Bidders are encouraged to return each day and bid again to stay in the lead. Winners will be announced at 5 pm on Saturday. Trees can be held for the winning families until after Thanksgiving if needed.
“You can definitely win a beautiful tree for a wonderful price while helping raise money for a great cause,” Maughan stated.
While looking at the decorated trees, attendees can also jumpstart their holiday shopping. Several vendors will be selling products such as Lularoe clothing, homemade jelly, baked goods, jewelry and more.
Santa will make an appearance on Friday from 6-7pm and again on Saturday from 11am-12pm.
Additional entertainment will be provided in the Pavilion to meet social distancing mandates set by the state.
There will be a Nativity display for all to view.
Also, the Papa Gyros food truck will be on site providing Greek food for hungry guests.
“We are so thankful to everyone who donated trees and items for the silent auction,” Maughan expressed with gratitude. “We look forward to seeing everyone!”
