festival

Festival of Trees Opens the Holiday Season for the 31st Year

Now in its 31st year, the Junior League of South Brevard’s Festival of Trees has become a holiday favorite, commencing the beginning of the holiday season on the Space Coast. During this time of year, the Junior League of South Brevard (JLSB) uses the money raised during the holiday-themed fundraiser to spearhead community projects while training women to be leaders in the community.

The women of the Junior League volunteer, raise money for community projects and receive leadership training while learning other skills like team building, strategic planning, organizational skills, public speaking, financial planning and more.

“Most people know about Festival of Trees but they do not know much about the Junior League of South Brevard, Inc.,” said Kristin Schroeder, Festival of Trees chair. “This year, we hope that our patrons view this iconic event as more than a fundraiser but rather an opportunity to see the Junior League in action impacting our local community.”

This year’s Festival of Trees will be located at the Courtyard at the Oaks in Melbourne. The event will last one day but will still feature the same favorite activities and holiday décor that the festival is known for.

Trees ranging in size from six feet tall and up are hand selected by the committee. Smaller trees and wreaths, donated by artists and local supporters, will also be on display and for sale throughout the weekend. A marketplace is perfect for early holiday gift shopping and tickets to win exciting raffle packages will be available for purchase.

The family friendly event includes plenty of activities for children too. Cooking with Mrs. Claus will showcase how kids and their families can eat smart and make healthy lifestyle choices, even during the holiday season. The 30 minute hands-on cooking class includes healthy substitutions to best meet your family’s needs and a “Cooking with Mrs. Claus” recipe book with easy festive snacks, fun activity ideas, and educational reading on how you can empower your family for a healthier lifestyle.

Kids can also participate in crafts and visit with Santa – who will also be on hand for photos, with plenty of time to get holiday cards ready.

The night before, guests will also have the opportunity to preview the beautifully designed trees before the event opens to the public at the inaugural “Tacky Tapas and Trees” cocktail party. Tickets include one drink ticket, appetizers, one raffle ticket, and an entrance into the event the following day. Cash bar will also be available. Each guest will have the coveted opportunity to preview the beautifully designed holiday trees and wreaths for auction and be the first to participate in the “buy it now” option.

The funds raised at this year’s event will support the Junior League’s current projects which focus on “improving the health of children through nutrition and physical activity.” The JLSB sponsors Fueling Kids, which provides healthy snacks and physical activities to children participating in the afterschool programs at Sabal Elementary, a local Title I School. JLSB also hosts Kids in the Kitchen, an event that focuses on teaching kids and their parents about the importance of eating healthy foods and involving them in the fight against childhood obesity.

“We appreciate the continued support from all the individuals, organizations and business that have allowed us to grow our event every year,” Kristin said. “We are looking forward to celebrating our 31st anniversary.”

Jlsb.net | (321) 610-8950

Tacky Tapas and Trees Cocktail Party

Friday, November 13 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

$35 per person, The Courtyard at the Oaks

1800 West Hibiscus Blvd., Suite 108 in Melbourne

Festival of Trees

Saturday, November 14 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

$5 per person, children 2 and under free

The Courtyard at the Oaks

1800 West Hibiscus Blvd., Suite 108 in Melbourne


This article appears in the November 2015 issue of SpaceCoast Living.
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