Festival of Trees Continues Holiday Fair at Riverside Convention Center
November 16, 2023
Riverside University Health System Foundation’s Festival of Trees, a popular local tradition, will take place at the Riverside Convention Center on November 24th and 25th. Coinciding with the weekend after Thanksgiving, the beloved event offers free family fun, including dozens of beautifully decorated trees, a holiday marketplace, performances, and opportunities to see Santa.
The Festival of Trees raises awareness and support for RUHS – Medical Center’s neonatal and pediatric intensive care units and the Child Abuse and Neglect Unit.
“Supporting the cause, and the fact that this event helps the hospital, is what keeps me coming back to decorate each year,” said Tammie Blackmore, who has volunteered her time as a tree decorator since the event debuted in 1989. “This is truly a labor of love because many of these trees have more than 700 pieces of decoration, all of which are tied on by hand.”
Each tree is uniquely themed, sponsored by individuals and local businesses, and is on display for the Festival of Trees Gala and Holiday Fair before being transported to another location for display during the month of December.
The public can view all 50 trees in one spot during the Festival of Trees Holiday Fair.
Sandy Ramirez, who began volunteering more than three decades ago after making connections with the event through her job at a florist, says that the event continues to improve with age. “I always see something new. Every year, something tops the year before,” she said.
More than 10,000 visitors of all ages are expected to immerse themselves in the spirit of the holidays over the weekend of free fun and entertainment, and for many, the event is the perfect way to kick-off the holiday season, said Corinne Awad, Director of Development for RUHS Foundation.
Doors to the Festival of Trees will be open Friday and Saturday between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. at the downtown Riverside Convention Center, 3637 Fifth Street, Riverside. For more information, visit ruhsfoundation.org.
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