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DEL.ICIO.USFestival of Trees finds (another) new home
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Festival of Trees was at the Atlanta History Center last year, and moves to SCAD this year. Photo by Todd McQueen.
Atlanta’s cherished annual Festival of Trees, which moved last year from its long-time home downtown to the Atlanta History Center, is moving again.
This year’s event will be held at the Savannah College of Art and Design.
“It was time for us to relook at the festival,” said chair Kitty Correll. “We’re a city that’s changing. Our main goal is to give back as much money as we can to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.”
The 31-year-old event has raised some $17 million over the years for the hospital. Last year’s event was nearly scotched due to scheduling conflicts at the Georgia World Congress Center. The Atlanta History Center, which happened to have an opening in its calendar, stepped in to save the day and hosted the festival and preview-night gala that preceded it.
This year, SCAD-Atlanta hosts a Dec. 5 gala featuring 30 trees decorated by students in honor of patients. Tickets are $150 each for the event, which is “holiday festive” attire and will feature live and silent auctions and dancing. Plans are still coming together for a public display of the trees.
The 28th annual Children’s Christmas Parade is planned for 10:30 a.m. to noon downtown. It steps off at Peacthree Street near Baker street and follows a 1.5-mile route through downtown.
“Children’s is thrilled to be working with the Savannah College of Art and Design, all the parade participants, sponsors and volunteers for the 2008 holiday season,” Correll said. “We are thankful for the opportunity to provide Atlanta with memorable holiday experiences while raising money for Children’s.”
For more information see the Children’s web site.
Comments
By Kimberly A. Davis - Historic College Park
September 30, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this
I’m THRILLED the tradition of Festival of Trees will live on. We have so few traditions that continue to live on in Atlanta it seems, and the thought of the festival ending is just too much!
Hooray for Festival of Trees and those dedicated to keeping it alive!!!!!
By mel
September 30, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this
I LOVE the Festival of Trees & what it stands for & so thrilled to see they have a new home. My 6 year old is begging for the fun rides again and the Art of the Season with all of the different craft stations! Please bring some rides back for the little ones.
By ebaby
October 1, 2008 6:02 AM | Link to this
I went to the Festival of Trees every year between the ages of 6 and 12. I no longer live in Atlanta, but really associate the Christmas season with the Festival of Trees. Its such a great way to kick-off the season. Its a shame that it seems like it is getting put on the back burner for what ever reason. Like Kimberly said, its a local tradition that needs to be protected.
By Shanda
November 24, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this
I am saddened that there is not a public forum at this time. With the economy being what it is, some parents may not be able to afford bringing their families at $150 a person. I do understand the purpose of the event and I hope all will be able to participate in some way or the other.
By Scott
November 24, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this
That $150 price tag is for the kickoff Gala event, which is the first night of everything—and I’m sure a lot of that price goes to the hospital. The article says that details for public showing had not been confirmed.
By Charlene
December 7, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this
Has a public showing been confirmed yet for The Festival of Trees?
By chante
December 10, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this
i am so disapointed the last two years. festival of trees had become a family tradition for my family, it was so convieniant and fun at the gwcc. i do thank you for keeping it alive and i pray it will return to normal next year! thanks until next year.
By Terevessser
March 12, 2009 12:24 PM | Link to this
продам Форд-Фокус 2008 года за 200 тр. торг возможет. срочно!!! +7 906 202 33 47