Saint Alphonsus Festival of Trees Celebrates Resumption of In-Person Event
After two years away due to the pandemic, the annual Saint Alphonsus Festival of Trees makes its return to the Boise Centre November 22-28. This year’s beneficiary is the new Neuro Surgical Trauma Intensive Care Unit, the first and only critical care unit in Idaho with board-certified, fellowship-trained neuro critical care physicians.
Festival attendees will be able to view and purchase hundreds of hand-crafted Christmas trees and wreaths decorated by local companies, organizations and individuals and enjoy performances by talented singers, dancers and musicians.
“We are so thankful that after a virtual event in 2020 and no Festival in 2021, we are able to return in person with the premier event that ushers in the holiday season in the Treasure Valley,” said Jill Aldape, Vice President of Philanthropy at Saint Alphonsus. “The Festival of Trees has been a cherished tradition for thousands of Treasure Valley families for nearly 40 years and serves as a kickoff to the holiday season. This year’s event will help us equip and operate the most comprehensive neurological treatment facility in Idaho.”
The annual Festival of Trees black-tie Gala kicks off the seven-day event the evening of November 22 and the Festival is open to the public from 10:00 am – 9:00 pm starting Wednesday, November 23 and running until Sunday, Nov. 27, concluding with a fashion show and luncheon on Monday, Nov. 28. The Festival is open on Thanksgiving Day from 2:00 – 9:00 pm.
Santa Claus will be on hand to greet children throughout the public admission hours, and other highlights will include the model train display from the Train Collector’s Association of the Treasure Valley and LEGO displays and from the Idaho LUG (Lego Users Group). Kids can also make their own holiday creations using LEGO bricks.
Other special attractions during the Festival include a children’s scavenger hunt, an art contest for K-6 grade students, a holiday gift shop and a magical Talking Tree.
New this year, tickets will be available both online and onsite at the Boise Centre so pre-purchase tickets and bypass the ticket line. Prices are $10 for adults, $6 for children, seniors, and members of the military.
Performers and volunteers are still welcome; to learn more about taking part, or for more information about the Festival, and to pre-purchase general admission tickets, visit https://www.saintalphonsus.org/foundation/events/festival-of-trees/