Oh, Christmas tree! The Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation’s 30th Annual Christmas Tree Festival returns to the VisitLethbridge.com Arena Nov. 17-20.
This year’s Christmas Tree Festival holds a special place in the Foundation’s members’ hearts, as it celebrates a legacy that began with the vision of Norah Hawn and the sitting Board of Directors in 1994. The event honours Hawn’s dream and the incredible community that continues to make it a reality, year after year.
The festival brings the community together to celebrate the warmth and spirit of Christmas, while shining a light on the importance of supporting critical life-saving healthcare in Lethbridge.
Last year’s festival raised more than $170,000 for the Foundation, which directly supports innovative equipment and programming for the CRH.
Foundation CEO Crystal Elliott says the festival is an incredible tradition, “that brings our community together in the spirit of giving and holiday cheer.”
According to Elliott, local businesses come together to donate Christmas trees and decorator sponsors purchase the decorations and decorate the trees. There will be a gala and auction Nov. 20 to live auction the trees.
“There are over 30 trees to be auctioned and we also have a silent auction,” notes Elliott. “All the proceeds go towards purchasing equipment, special projects and programs.”
Free public viewings take place from 12-4 p.m. Family Night is scheduled for Nov. 18 from 5-8 p.m. The free event features Santa, face painting, skating, crafts, cookies and hot chocolate.
Elliott says the Foundation has a wish list for the funds raised each year. “It will go towards the greatest needs. We’re currently also working on a large cardiac campaign for cardiac sciences right here in the community. We have a couple of big projects we’re working on.”
