Lake Tahoe's Festival of the Trees begins Wednesday

Lights, trees, action! Lake Tahoe community members and visitors are invited to celebrate the holiday season at the seventh annual Festival of Trees and Lights.

The family-friendly festival runs from December 2 through December 6 at MontBleu Resort Casino & Spa. This year, all proceeds will support prevention programs and trauma services for Barton Hospital’s Level III Trauma Center.

“The Festival of Trees and Lights is brimming with holiday activities the whole family can enjoy,” says Kindle Craig, director of the Barton Foundation. “It’s a great way for locals and visitors to kick off the holiday season and to support South Lake Tahoe’s health and wellbeing.”

The MontBleu Convention Center is transformed into a winter wonderland with trees and wreathes decorated by school children and local designers. During the day, as well as Friday evening, attendees can watch live holiday performances, purchase holiday gifts at Mrs. Claus’s Gift Shop, and bid on items in the silent auction. Each child receives a teddy bear and is invited to visit the Teddy Bear Hospital for an animal-friendly check-up. Barton Health’s nurses and doctors will be available to hear teddy bear ailments and provide x-rays, assessments, and bandages. Children can also write a letter to the North Pole, create crafts at the Gingerbread Junction, or take a family photo with Santa Claus.

Adults interested in an elegant evening can attend the Gala on Saturday, December 5, Barton Health’s largest annual fundraiser for community health. It features a formal four-course dinner, a live and silent auction, and dancing.

Children, along with their parents, are encouraged to bring their teddy bears to a Teddy Bear Brunch on Sunday, December 6. Every child will receive a goody bag and a visit to the teddy bear hospital.

The entire Festival is put on by the Barton Foundation staff and volunteers. For a day by day schedule and more information, go to festivaloftreeslaketahoe.org.

Entrance tickets for the Festival of Trees and Lights can be purchased in advance or at the door. Entrance for public viewing is $3 for children or seniors and $5 for adults. The Teddy Bear Brunch and Gala, which typically sell out in advance, can be purchased online, bartonhealth.org/festival, or by contacting Sara Conrad at 530.543.5909. Volunteer opportunities are available.