The Town of Bonnyville’s annual Christmas kickoff event, the Festival of Trees, is all set to celebrate its 15th anniversary of raising funds for local community groups.
This year, the hardworking elves at the municipality are infusing new elements into the festival of trees while retaining the beloved traditions that Bonnyville residents have come to cherish.
On December 2nd and 3rd, the Bonnyville and District Centennial Centre will be transformed into a magical winter wonderland, offering a range of festive activities. The event will feature the cherished ‘Santas Secrete Store,’ a lively silent auction, a 50/50 draw, and the opportunity to capture memorable moments with Santa and the Grinch.
But Santa isn’t just about taking photos, he’ll be making a grand appearance down Bonnyville’s main street during the Santa Claus parade on December 2nd at 5 p.m. For those looking to participate in the parade, registration forms can be found at Town Hall or on the town’s website at town.bonnyville.ab.ca
All proceeds from the festival of trees will be donated to the Bonnyville Health Foundation, making it a true gift to the local community.
The festival is being held in conjunction with the Bonnyville and District Chamber of Commerce’s Christmas Craft Show and Expo, creating a vibrant holiday atmosphere.
The municipality is also adding a new twist on prizes in 2023, as attendees will have the chance to win more than just beautiful, decorated trees. Instead, they will have the opportunity to win all the prizes included in a tree, with each prize package valued at over $1,000. Themes include Self Care, Sports, Family activities, Butcher and BBQ, Wine Tree, and more.
Doreen Kushnir the Town’s Event Administration Assistant, expressed, “This is a surprising new twist to Festival of Trees. We’ve changed the way people could bid on trees in the past but haven’t changed what people win. We thought this year, being our 15th anniversary, would be a great time to try something different.”
Another delightful addition to this year’s Festival of Trees is the ‘Making Spirits Bright’ event, taking place December 2nd from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. This Christmas cocktail event invites attendees to judge their favorite drinks, which will be presented by the Town of Bonnyville Mayor and Council members.
Kushnir explained, “The Making Spirits Bright event will see Town Council competing for tips to see who will be crowned the winner.”
A $40 ticket includes a taste test of seven different cocktails from the Mayor and Council members, along with appetizers. Attendees can tip their favorite cocktails and the cocktail with the most tips by the end of the event will receive the first Making Spirits Bright trophy. All tip proceeds will be donated to the Bonnyville Health Foundation, and the winning cocktail will be featured at the 2023 Bonnyville Hospital Gala.
The success of the Festival of Trees over the last 15 years has been made possible by the support of local sponsors, partnerships with the Bonnyville and District Chamber of Commerce, Centennial Centre, and Bonnyville Health Foundation, as well as the enthusiastic attendees who make this event a cherished part of their Christmas each year. The Town extends a heartfelt thank you to each one of you for your continued support and for making this event a true community celebration.