Decorated Trees, Wreaths To Be Showcased At Festival Of Trees

CLEARWATER, FL — After a year away from its traditional presentation, the Festival of Trees is returning to The Long Center, 1501 N. Belcher Road in Clearwater.

The event, presented by Amerilife, showcases hundreds of decorated trees and wreaths, local vendors, live performances and an opportunity to share holiday wishes with a special guest.

In its 37th year, the Festival of Trees will be offering extended general admission hours to meet the demand for this growing event. It will be open to the public Nov. 20 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Nov. 21 from 10 to 5 p.m.

“After a year away from our traditional presentation, we could not be happier to bring back the Festival of Trees that is so beloved in our community," said Madison Orr Hauenstein, executive director of The Arc Tampa Bay Foundation. "We look forward to seeing guests from years past as well as welcoming new friends to this Tampa Bay tradition.”

The Festival of Trees is a family-friendly holiday celebration to benefit The Arc Tampa Bay, a nonprofit organization that has been supporting and empowering people with intellectual and developmental disabilities since 1963.

This event features a display of trees and wreaths decorated meticulously decorated by local businesses, community leaders and families. All are available to purchase to raise critical funding for those served by The Arc Tampa Bay.

Kids will enjoy arts and crafts in the Children’s Village as well as a visit and photo opportunity with Santa. Guests can enjoy shopping at a variety of local business vendor booths as well as performances by local entertainers.

Event co-chairs Kim Kurey and Kiersten Finchum are most excited about how Festival of Trees brings the community together in support of those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

“This event is such a fun and unique way for the community to give back. Whether it’s decorating a tree or wreath, volunteering or simply bringing your family to visit the whimsical displays, everything helps our special friends at The Arc Tampa Bay. If you’ve never been to Festival of Trees, you must visit and start your holiday season off right," Kurey said.

The cost for the weekend festival is $5 per person with children age 5 and under admitted for free.

The Arc Tampa Bay Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located at 1501 N. Belcher Road, Suite 244, Clearwater.