Festival of Trees open through Friday

Brooke Curley Photo/Gila Valley Central: The Festival of Trees is a glittery sight and free to the public.

By Brooke Curley

brooke@gilavalleycentral.net

SAFFORD – Like snowflakes, no two trees are quite the same.

A tradition spanning more than 20 years, the Festival of Trees is a glorious glittering sight of the holiday spirit. The festival is put on by various organizations, as well as families in remembrance of loved ones now departed.

Helen Romero, St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church Regent, told Gila Valley Central that the festival is truly a community event and not for just one religion.

“This is our annual festival of trees,” Romero said. “It’s a community thing; not just the Catholics. We have schools, organizations, and families, and then we sell stuffed animals and jewelry. This all goes to the charities that we support.”

Charities that the Festival of Trees sales go to include the Cancer Center, Hospice, Oddfellows Bikes for the Kids, St. Vincent De Paul, and its youth group.

“The festival has been going on for roughly 25 years,” Romero said. “My favorite part is seeing the kids when they come to look at the trees and seeing them get so excited. But I would especially like to thank the community for their volunteered time and contributions.”

If you go:

Cost: Free

Location: St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church at 311 S. Central Ave.

Festival times: 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. and 4 – 7 p.m.

The Festival of Trees’ last day is Friday, Dec. 8.

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