What’s the only place where you can find more than a hundred decorated trees, dozens of gingerbread houses, more than a hundred vendors that raises money all for a good cause? Of course, it’s the Festival of Trees! The Festival of Trees is just what it sounds like! It is a bunch of decorated trees, vendors, food, and Christmas galore. And it’s all for a great cause. All proceeds go to Kennedy Krieger, for the improvement of the lives of those who have brain, spinal, and musculosketal system disorders.

There is so much to do at the Festival of Trees. When you first walk in, it is as if you are walking into Santa’s Workshop at the North Pole. As I walk in, Christmas music fills my ears, and I walk on a red carpet into the space filled with hundreds of smiling happy people. There are three different gigantic rooms at the Festival of Trees. The first has the majority of the decorated trees from different organizations, multiple vendors, and the gingerbread houses. The decorated trees are my favorite. People or organizations can buy trees and decorate them with a theme in hopes to win first, second or third. Many people at the end of the festival can buy the trees for their house. The gingerbread houses are also a favorite of mine. Like the trees, people can submit gingerbread houses at a certain price in hopes to win first, second, or third. They are so fun to see.

In the second room, there are more trees and vendors, food, and a stage for performers. The performers range from school dance troupes, to bands and singers, to even acrobats. They are always great shows.

In the last huge room is the kid’s area, again with more trees, vendors, rides such as a carousel, a small petting zoo, and lots of games and prizes. As you can see, the Festival of Trees is for all ages. Parents love the shopping and food, while the kids love the games, rides, and even a visit from Santa! And what’s greater than it all going to a great cause? So next year I hope to see you at the Festival of Trees, the day after Thanksgiving until Sunday. It’s a great family activity and a great way to get in the Christmas Spirit.