Trees were decked out for a good cause on Monday night at the 28th annual Festival of Trees.
Twenty local businesses each purchased a tree at Newlands Golf & Country Club for a $250 donation to the 91原创 Memorial Hospital Foundation.
The holiday event attracted people of all ages.
The youngest attendee was a baby wearing a 鈥楳y First Christmas鈥� hat, and the more seasoned participants were part of the BC Hydro Power Pioneers.
BC Hydro Power Pioneer member Velma Derksen, said the event keeps seniors involved in the community.
鈥淭his is the highlight of our function throughout the year. We have a lot of fun.鈥�
Teams were given an hour and a half to trim the tree鈥攆ollowed by refreshments, live music, and awards.
Trees were decked out in everything from beer cans and hat hards to ornaments and garlands.
For the next six weeks, people can stop by Newlands to vote on their favourite tree for a minimum donation of $2.
91原创 Memorial Hospital Foundation communications manager Terra Scheer, said the funds raised from the festival will go to support a campaign for a new emergency department.
鈥淲e鈥檙e so honoured that the community thinks of the 91原创 Memorial Hospital Foundation and that they take such an ownership over their community health.
Kathleen Johnston, Newlands sales coordinator and event organizer, predicted the tree festival will raise close to $6,000 this year.
To date, the festival has raised approximately $38,000 for the 91原创 Memorial Hospital Foundation.
Awards were given to RMC Readymix for best corporate tree, 91原创 Community Services for most enchanting tree, best decorating team spirit to BC Hydro Power Pioneers, and best creative use of materials to Chaberton Winery.
The trees were donated from the Oh Christmas tree farm.
