8th annual Festival of Trees & Lights gets underway December 1

Ring in the holiday spirit at Barton Health’s eighth annual Festival of Trees & Lights. The winter celebration features events and entertainment starts Thursday, December 1 and continues through Sunday, December 4 at MontBleu Resort on the South Shore of Lake Tahoe.

“The Festival of Trees & Lights provides a warm and family-friendly atmosphere to inspire people to get into the spirit of holiday giving,” says Kindle Craig, the director of the Barton Foundation. “All the money raised goes back into the community and supports health and wellness programs.”

This year, proceeds from the Festival will support the expansion of Barton Health’s Cancer Wellness Program. Support services play an important role in battling cancer and improving quality of life for patients as well as their families and caregivers. The expanded program will address the social, emotional, and functional aspects of a patient’s cancer journey through supportive services, such as massage, exercise, psychotherapy, and nutrition classes. This program is offered free of charge for community members undergoing cancer treatment.

Children and adults of all ages can support the cause and attend the Festival. Barton Foundation volunteers and staff transform MontBleu’s Convention Center into a holiday paradise with trees and wreaths decorated by local artists and schoolchildren. Attendees can enjoy the Teddy Bear Hospital, a kids’ craft area, a Santa photo session, a comprehensive raffle, and a full lineup of live entertainment.

In addition, special events are featured throughout the Festival. Seniors, ages 55 and over, can attend the Senior Stroll at no cost on Thursday from 2 p.m .to 4 p.m. Children and their families can attend the Teddy Bear Brunch on Sunday, December 4 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Special events do sell out and it is highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance.

ACTIVITIES BY DAY:

Senior Stroll
Thursday, December 1, 2-4pm
Admission: FREE for Seniors (55+)
All seniors are invited to attend the Festival for FREE and enjoy a host of special holiday activities in addition to fun raffles, and pastries and coffee, compliments of Cakes by Grace.

Public Viewing at Barton Health's 8th Annual Festival of Trees and Lights
Friday, December 2, 9am-1:30pm
Friday Family Night, December 2, 5pm-9pm
Saturday, December 3, 10am-2pm
Admission: Seniors (55+) and Children (2-12): $3; Adults: $5
Special Friday Family Night Price: $25 per family, up to six people
Locals and visitors are invited to attend this family-friendly, holiday extravaganza. The MontBleu Convention Center will be transformed into a winter wonderland with holiday trees and wreaths. Throughout each day, attendees can watch holiday performances, shop for holiday gifts, enter raffles, and get a family photo with Santa. Children, along with their parents, can stop by the Teddy Bear hospital any time during the festival for an animal-friendly check-up.

The 25th Annual Gala
Saturday, December 3, 5:30-11pm
Mont Bleu Resort
Celebrate the holidays in style at this black-tie optional event. Features a 4-course gourmet meal, live and silent auction, dancing, and more. All proceeds will benefit the Community Health Endowment. For more information, go to www.FestivalofTreesLakeTahoe.org. Tickets for The Gala can be purchased on the website or by calling 530.543.5909.

Teddy Bear Brunch
Sunday, December 4, 10am-12pm
Brunch: Adults (13 and over): $35. Children (2-12): $25.
Teddy Bear Brunch includes food and fun for the entire family. In addition to coloring books, crayons, and a goody bag for each child, kids will enjoy crafts, Teddy Bear Hospital, and a photo with Santa! Bring a favorite teddy bear from home, or adopt one from the Teddy Bear Hospital, to be pampered and dressed. Get your tickets early - this event sells out! Tickets available at festivaloftreeslaketahoe.org.

For more information or to purchase tickets, attendees can go to festivaloftreeslaketahoe.org or call 530.543.5909. Entrance for public viewing is $3 for children or seniors and $5 for adults. Family rates are available. All children receive a complimentary teddy bear when they visit the Teddy Bear Hospital. Community members interested in volunteer opportunities can contact Marty Green at 530.543.5784.