Festival Of Trees: A Beloved Tradition

For over ten years (we have lost count!), one of our favorite yearly traditions is attending the Festival Of Trees and purchasing a tree or two to benefit children and families at Primary Children’s Medical Center. (Watch a short video below done by KBYU last year on the Festival of The Trees.)

Last night we attended the opening night auction and gala, where those in attendance can bid on over 800 trees donated and decorated by organizations and individuals in the local community. We ended up purchasing two trees, two gingerbread houses, and many hand-crafted gift items.

Many trees are in memory of a loved one, and those stories can be read on a sign close to the tree. A few that we came across last night were recent high profile news stories, such as fallen Draper police officer Sgt. Derek Johnson, and the tragic death last year of two friends who died together while duck hunting on the Great Salt Lake.

“I feel that we need to help and support the community and the resources we have here in this valley,” said Mark Gines, owner Gines Auto Service. “Every where you turn around there is somebody that has been helped by Primary Children’s. We are very blessed to have them here in our neighborhood.”

Besides trees, you will find a gift boutique, fudge and other goodies, wreaths, quilts, performances, and the always-popular gingerbread houses.

The trees we purchased:

Last night there were two trees that caught our eye that we ended up bidding on and purchasing. Stay tuned next week when we will do a more detailed post about the stories behind the trees, as well as pictures of the gingerbread houses we purchased. You can view the trees we purchased on J-11 and J17-19.

Until All The Pieces Fit

This tree and display has a puzzle theme. We loved how even the snowflakes on this tree were made out of puzzle pieces! The decorator of this tree dedicated it to her young child who has been diagnosed with autism, and is flourishing due to the excellent staff and early-intervention program at Primary Children’s Medical Center. The puzzle piece has become the icon for autism awareness. The puzzle pattern reflects the mystery and complexity of the autism spectrum. The different colors and shapes represent the diversity of the people and families living with the condition.

Photo above courtesy of Angela Roztler.
Make sure to read about her Santa Project and see how you can help out!

Santa Is Coming To Town

We loved this Santa-themed tree and display. (See picture at top of this post.) With a cozy fireplace to curl up by and watch the classic “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town”, we couldn’t pass this one up! It also comes with a smaller tree for tabletop display. Make sure to stay tuned next week when we do a spotlight post on the person this tree is dedicated to.

About the Festival Of Trees:

The Festival of Trees is open to the public tonight  through Saturday (December 4 – December 7, 2013). at the South Towne Expo Center (9575 S. State St. in Sandy) from 10am to 10pm. Tickets are $5 for adults, $4 for seniors and $3 for children ages 2 to 11. Six immediate family members can enter for $15 on Wednesday and discount tickets are available at most Zions Bank branches.

Even though the opening auction was last night, there are still many trees, gingerbread houses and other items that need to be purchased. You can purchase them when attending.

Last year the Festival Of Tree raised over 1.8 million dollars for Primary Children’s Medical Center.

Read more stories from the Festival Of Trees on the Salt Lake Tribune website.