Festival of Trees, Whidbey Island’s holiday spectacle, will be held Dec. 5, 6 and 7. The festival offers brighter days through brighter holidays for Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Island County and Citizens Against Domestic and Sexual Abuse (CADA). The festival features a gala and auction, Teddy bear breakfast, afternoon tea and an open house. The Elk’s Lodge in Oak Harbor will be transformed into a holiday wonderland by decorated Christmas trees and wreaths.
The gala and auction is set for Friday, Dec. 5, at 5:30 p.m. The black tie evening features an auction of decorated trees and wreaths. Gala tickets are $60 per person. To purchase tickets, call 279-0644.
The Teddy bear breakfast will have two seatings Saturday, Dec. 6. The first seating will be at 8:30 a.m., the second seating at 10:30 a.m. The entire family will enjoy the menu of French toast sticks, eggs and sausage with entertainment by Santa and Frosty, Academy of Dance and the Presbyterian puppets. Families are encouraged to bring a new stuffed animal to donate to a child in a crisis. Bring your cameras or purchase a photo of your child for $1. Tickets for Teddy bear breakfasts are $6 per person and can be purchased in Oak Harbor at Alaska USA Mortgage, Daily Grind, Discount Party Store and Jones Accounting.
At afternoon tea Saturday, Dec. 6, at 2:30 p.m., enjoy tea, scones and pastries while holiday entertainers serenade with seasonal favorites and poetry readings. Have fun with raffle items and the joy of the season. The beauty of the trees and wreaths will certainly put you in the holiday spirit. Tickets are $8 and can be purchased at First American Title, The Greenhouse Florist & Nursery and Whidbey Island Bank on Bayshore Drive in Oak Harbor.
Festival of Trees will conclude with a community open house Sunday Dec. 7, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., everyone is invited to come and enjoy the magic of Festival of Trees. Participants are invited to vote on their favorite decorated tree and wreath. Holiday music and refreshments will be provided. Admission is free with donations encouraged in support of Big Brothers/Big Sisters and CADA.
