Festival of Trees
By
Kellie Underhill
Mark your calendar and don’t miss the annual Festival of Trees at
Youth Village November 20th – 23rd.
"The Festival of Trees is a great fundraiser for us," says Brenda Nowlan
who is leading the project this year.
All proceeds from the event go to Miramichi Big Brothers Big Sisters Boys
& Girls Clubs.
"It’s just an awesome sight, all lit and decorated," Brenda smiles.
People sponsor or decorate the trees, or both.
The Festival is open to public viewing Thursday, Friday and Saturday from
Noon-9pm and Sunday Noon-5pm.
Traditionally during the viewing, they serve hot apple cider.
"And we give out a calendar and can answer any questions about Big Brothers/
Big Sisters," Brenda adds.
The trees are auctioned off on the 23rd in a silent auction.
The funds raised will help support all their programs including after school
programs at the Youth Village, in-school mentoring, and more.
"It is a big event," Brenda says. "Somewhere around 3000 people will filter
in and out through there."
"It is such a nice atmosphere and it gives people an opportunity to see
the Youth Village itself and ask questions and choose a tree and bid on it and the money goes to a very good cause."
Besides the trees, they also have auction items donated by local sponsors
up for silent bidding.
"Very nice articles," Brenda says. "For instance, I have a lady who gave
an absolutely beautiful scarf and hat set. One who gave hand-made table place mats and runners. They’re unique one-of-a-kind
items, usually. We have a Gingerbread House, a small wooden table, home-made preserves, baby sweaters, the list just goes
on and on."
"Our trees are beautiful. Every year they seem to be getting nicer," she
adds. "It puts you in a real Christmas mood."
The cost of sponsoring a tree is $150. Admission to the event is $3/ adult
and $2/ child.
For more information email yvillage@nbnet.nb.ca or phone the Youth Village at (506) 778-2444.
