Festival of Trees and More Holiday Festivities
Grand Boulevard decks out the Town Center and decorates trees for charities
Christmas trees evoke a sense of happiness and hope, and as the symbols of the holiday spirit, these feelings are exactly what Grand Boulevard hopes visitors experience when attending the Festival of Trees.
In its 13th year, Festival of Trees is a community favorite as it merges holiday magic with holiday giving. Beginning Nov. 21, guests can stroll Grand Park viewing trees that have been beautifully decorated by 12 local charities.
Each charity’s tree is decorated in a theme that aligns with its mission. On the 21st, from 4-6 p.m., guests can view the trees and cast their vote for their favorite.
At 6 p.m., winners will be announced in the following categories: first, second, third and people’s choice. The charities will vie for the $8,500 purse that will be donated by Grand Boulevard, making it possible to continue doing the valuable work they do.
“It’s inspiring when the charities come out to decorate, bringing their staff and board of directors and everyone is so excited – getting into the holiday spirit!” said Stacey Brady, marketing and communications director at Grand Boulevard. “This event is so important in getting the word out about what these charities do and how they do it.”
In the 12 days leading up to the festival, each charity will be profiled on Grand Boulevard’s social media. Guests can also learn the mission and accomplishments of each charity at the event.
Grand Boulevard officially welcomes the holiday season on Nov. 17 with the Coastal White Christmas Celebration and Hometown Parade. The dazzling holiday lights of Grand Boulevard will be unveiled, and the Christmas parade commences down the boulevard at 5 p.m. A few days later on the 21st, the trees will be fully decorated and ready for viewing and voting alongside the glistening lights.
Holiday happenings continue throughout the month at Grand Boulevard. On Friday and Saturday evenings from Dec. 1-30, visitors can enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides around the Town Center, 5-8 p.m. Santa will be on-site for professional photos and for children to tell him what’s on their wish lists.
Let Friday and Saturday nights end with the cheer only holiday music can bring as the Emerald Coast Theatre Company presents “Rock Around the Christmas Tree,” a musical revue.
“It’s a beautiful place to bring your family and celebrate not only the holidays but the spirit behind the season — giving and helping those who are less fortunate,” said Brady. “Festival of Trees provides a visual venue from which you can glean that message.”
To learn more about the Festival of Trees and other holiday events at Grand Boulevard visit: https://grandboulevard.com/category/events/
The 12 participating charities include:
Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast
Children in Crisis
Boy Scout Troop #562 Santa Rosa Beach
Emerald Coast Hospice
Fisher House of the Emerald Coast
Friends of South Walton Sea Turtles
Dog-Harmony
Shelter House
Children’s Volunteer Health Network
Westonwood Ranch, Inc.
Northwest Florida Ballet
Caring & Sharing of South Walton
