November 20, 2007 - 2:23am
Families, seniors and the general public are invited to get into the Christmas spirit during the 13th annual Festival of Trees which kicks off this weekend at Malaspina University-College.
More than 50 decorated trees, two mountain backdrops and a 136-foot-long mural painted by local artist David Wick have transformed Malaspina’s upper cafeteria at the Nanaimo campus into a magical winter wonderland. The Festival starts Friday, Nov. 23 and runs until Dec. 2.
“This year’s theme is based on romance and the classical movie of Dr. Zhivago,” explained Amber Harris of JBD Design group. “We wanted to create a beautiful atmosphere including a snowy wonderland, icicles, love and romance. Never before have local designers poured such effort and quality into designing their trees.”
Families with young children are invited to visit the Festival during Family Days this weekend, Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 24 and 25, from noon to 5 pm. Festivities include non-stop entertainment by school and community bands, refreshments and treats (by donation), Santa photos, face-painting, balloon animals, a teddy bear clinic, children’s crafts and more. Public Day is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 1, followed by Seniors Day on Dec. 2.
“We invite everyone to come out and enjoy this year’s Festival,” said Jeet Manhas, Chair of the Festival of Trees Steering Committee. “It’s a wonderful way to get into the Christmas spirit.”
Manhas congratulated a team of over 40 community volunteers who have worked hard for several months organizing this year’s Festival. “I’d like to thank all our community sponsors, business supporters and members of the Malaspina Foundation Board who make the Festival possible,” added Manhas. “Their support and hard work is evident in the fact that both our Festival Gala and Festival Lunch sold out quickly.”
Manhas added that this year’s exterior Christmas light display at the Nanaimo campus, all energy-saving LEDs, will be one of the largest displays ever in the history of the Festival.
Raffle tickets for most of the decorated designer Christmas trees will be available for purchase throughout the Festival. “I encourage everyone to come and view the trees, buy some raffle tickets and enter draws to win their favourites,” said Manhas.
The Festival of Trees is the largest community event in the Malaspina Foundation's annual fundraising program, and proceeds support scholarships for student awards, scholarships and bursaries.
All Festival activities take place in Building 300 (upper cafeteria) at Malaspina University-College in Nanaimo, 900 Fifth Street. Admission is by donation. Free parking is available on site during all Festival events courtesy of Robbins Parking. Malaspina’s upper cafeteria is wheelchair accessible.
For further information, visit http://www.viu.ca/festival.
Tags: In the Community
