Festival of Trees brings magic to happy valley

In this Christmas season, walking in a winter wonderland is just a drive away, thanks to Festival of Trees.

Festival of Trees is a fundraiser for Primary Children’s Hospital. Every sale of the event, including tickets, products and food, goes toward the Medical Center. The festival is also a fun way to spend a night out with family and friends.

According to a Festival of Trees news release, the event goes much deeper than just a Christmas time event.

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“Each tree, wreath, gingerbread house, quilt and playhouse has a story,” the release said, adding that many of the festival participants are involved because they lost someone they loved or because their child was a patient at the hospital. This makes each story individualized and special.

Robyn Austin, publicity chair of Festival of Trees, said the event has a lot to offer to guests and visitors.

“There is really something for everyone,” Austin said. “It’s a great date night. I talked to a person who works in the media who told me that his very first date with his wife was at the Festival of Trees. We’ve had proposals. It’s just a fun something to do.”

Austin also said the event is a great way to get ideas to decorate house and home for the Christmas season. Ideas from Christmas tree decorations to wreath designs, table settings and even gift suggestions.

Marie Partridge, co-chairwoman of the event, said families of all sizes are welcome, as there will be an area designated for children to gather and participate in activities such as face painting.

Santa Claus will take a break from his busy schedule to make an appearance, and attendees will have the chance to have their photo with him and tell him their special wishes for Christmas.

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As Austin put it, sometimes the best way to spread Christmas cheer is through serving.

“Knowing that every penny that you spend here is going to help a child is the icing 0n the cake,” Austin said.

The Festival runs through Dec. 3, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. at the South Towne Exposition Center in Sandy.

Tickets are $5 at the door for adults, and $3 for children ages 2-11. Tickets can be pre-ordered for $4 for adults and $2.50 for children through any Zions Bank branch. Senior citizen tickets are $4.