The Festival of Trees, a Jacksonville holiday tradition featuring designer Christmas trees, wreaths and holiday decorations, is prepared to debut at a new location. Pathway Services Unlimited, 1905 W. Morton, is the new home for the Festival of Trees scheduled for November 17 to 19. Pathway will continue the long-time event Woodhaven Hospice hosted for many years. Festival of Trees opens at 5 p.m. on Friday, November 17. On Saturday, November 18, the Festival will be open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. The Festival is open the final day, Sunday, November 19, from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The traditional auction of designer trees, wreaths and centerpieces begins at 2:30 p.m. |
While mom and dad shop at the Festival, there will be plenty of activities for children. Children’s activities include writing a letter to Santa Claus (with a special response from Santa’s home address), decorating Christmas cookies, constructing Christmas decorations and a visit with Santa.
Throughout the festival, attendees will be entertained with sounds of the holiday season from local performers like Rod Nicholson, Gospel Gals, Tyler Maul, Tim and Tammy Welch, Jacksonville Senior Center Sunshine Singers, Annabelle Blue, Becky Fitzgerald, Morgan Shulte, Aziz Murat Coktu, Amanda McEvers, Diane Headen, Alan VanGiesen, Robert Sampson, Glen Gobel and Janet Smith. Concessions will be available all three days of the Festival and will feature chili, sloppy joes, nachos, hot dogs and drinks.
Since 1964, Pathway Services Unlimited has provided quality opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities and other physical and mental challenges. Proceeds from the Festival of Trees will benefit the Pathway Partners Fund. The Pathway Partners Fund provides extras, such as clothing, medical expenses, furniture, and tickets to entertainment or sporting events, to make life more comfortable for individuals served by Pathway.