Over the past 20 years, the Festival of Trees has raised $796,954. The theme for the festival in its 21st year in 2019 is Christmas Cheer. Michele Hoffos, chairperson of the commitee for the Festival of Trees in Assiniboia, said the funds amassed from the annual festival will be split between the South Country Healthcare Foundation and the Prince of Wales Cultural and Recreation Centre, mirroring how donations had been commonly allotted during the local event’s previous incarnations. Hoffos, by the way, has been involved with annual Christmas festival for an incredible 16 years.
The cash accumulated from Assiniboia’s Festival of Trees has provided vital support to local healthcare initiatives in the past. Also, the money collected from the Festival of Trees has assisted in sustaining the upkeep and operational costs for the Prince of Wales Cultural and Recreation Centre, which is a vital and multipurposed hub in Assiniboia.
The Festival of Trees committee is the volunteer-based group who are responsible for organizing this festival, which has aided healthcare and other community initiatives for 20 years. The community’s enthusiastic backing has been crucial for the annual Christmas celebration held at the POW. “We are a volunteer group,” Hoffos said. “Without the support from the community and individuals, the festival wouldn’t be the success its been for such a small community.”
This year, cocktails will be served at 5 p.m. when the festival begins on December 7 at the POW. Dinner by Fresh Start will be served at 6 p.m. Before the grand auction starts at 8 p.m. there will be a silent auction, where people can start bidding as soon as they arrive. The event will also feature a Penny Parade. Arm’s length raffle tickets will be sold. Later in the evening, the Uncoolas will perform at the POW. The Uncoolas are a cover band based in Regina and Moose Jaw. The band play a wide array of musical favourites, from the Doobie Brothers, the Monkees, Tom Jones and Elton John. Even disparate music styles such as disco and country rock are included within the band’s vast repertoire.
Tickets for the Festival of Trees are still available at Top 40/TFM on 329 Centre Street in Assiniboia for $75.
