The Town of Bonnyville is officially ready for the holiday season after another successful Festival of Trees.
Brightly decorated Christmas trees were on display for all to see from Nov. 30 to Dec. 3.
As always, the Bonnyville and District Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Town of Bonnyville offered a full slate of events over the course of the festival.
Bonnyville Mayor Gene Sobolewski and Dave Collins started things off at the Christmas Tea on Thursday, Nov. 30, singing carols and holiday classics.
Organizers switched gears the following night, offering an equally popular alternative at the wine tasting. As always, trees were up for bids on throughout all of the events, with proceeds going towards the Child and Youth Mental Health Collaborative.
“We're not 100 per cent sure how much we've made as of yet, but we know it's been a good festival. Tree sales were a little better last year, but we did have the wine tasting sell out,” explained event co-chair Doreen Kushnir.
Things got going for the younger crowd on Saturday, when Santa Claus showed up for pictures before a brief disappearance for the Santa Claus Parade. While they awaited his return, children could check out Santa's Secret Shop where they could pick out a gift for mom and dad.
Those who had already finished their Christmas shopping kicked back and watched a Christmas film, or took the time to check out all of the different displays.
“I love the festival. I come here every year to take pictures with Santa. I like that I get to come here and pick out a gift for my mom. I think that's my favourite part, that people can come here and be in the spirit of giving,” expressed Savannah Letondre, a child in attendance.
The party didn't slow down, with a movie night sponsored by the Bonnyville Baptist Church on Saturday, Dec. 2. The big man in red was back on the final day of the festival.
Lucky raffle winners also took home various door prizes, including appropriately themed beer and wine trees. There was something for everyone as residents young and old took in the sights and shared in the holiday spirit.
“Seniors tea went well, there was a full house. The wine tasting was another success, and the pictures with Santa have been really popular. All-in-all it was really good,” said Kushnir.
