PORT ANGELES — This year’s Festival of Trees has been reorganized into a trio of fundraising events presented in a part virtual, part in-person format this month.
Now in its 30th year, the annual Festival of Trees is a three-day fundraiser for the Olympic Medical Center Foundation, featuring elaborately decorated Christmas trees and wreaths created by some of the area’s best designers.
Tickets are available online now at omhf.org, and also can be purchased by calling 360-417-7144.
Because of COVID-19, all events will be held in an alternative format.
Virtual show, auction
Presented by First Federal, the Festival of Trees Gala includes a virtual show and auction, with the $105 individual tickets that include dinner to be picked up at one of several local restaurants.
Anyone who purchases a gala ticket will be able to view the trees in person on Wednesday, Nov. 25, or Friday, Nov. 27, at the Port Angeles Senior Center, 328 E. Seventh St.
Each attendee will select a viewing time in order to limit visitation to no more than five people per room during the preview; masks and social distancing will be required.
The gala itself is set for 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 27, when the trees and wreaths will be auctioned off.
“The Wednesday and Friday in-person viewing will allow for attendees to look at the trees live before bidding,” said Lindsay Fox, Festival of Trees chair.
Teddy Bear Tea
The Teddy Bear Tea will be Saturday, Nov. 28. Tickets are $12 each or $250 for a VIP package of 10. Each ticket holder will be allowed to sign up for a ticket viewing time between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
Each person will be given 30 minutes to view the decorated trees and wreaths and will receive the usual cookie, beverage and Christmas favor.
Santa photos also will be offered only to attendees, and will be taken with Santa (socially-distanced from children 10 feet away), who will be on a set with Christmas decorations in the background. Attendees must sign up for separate times to get their photos taken.
Family Days attendees will be able to purchase tickets for $7 each to view the decorated tree and wreaths Sunday, Nov. 29. Each ticket holder will be allowed to sign up for a ticket viewing time between 8 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.
The event is presented by The Lodge at Sherwood Village, Fifth Avenue Retirement Center and Sherwood Assisted Living.
“We live in unique times,” said Bruce Skinner, OMC Foundation executive director.
“Our committees have developed a plan that will allow for attendees to view trees at both events in person, but safely.
“We really want to thank the Clallam County Health Department for helping us develop our health and safety measures.”
For more information, call the OMC Foundation office at 360-417-7144.
