Festival of Trees – Charity Fundraiser – Victoria

Festival of Trees 2009

Festival of Trees 2009 Fundraiser for B.C. Children’s Hospital.

Every year, the Festival of Trees transforms ‘The Fairmont Empress Hotel’ into a lush forest of beautiful decorated trees to raise funds for BC Children’s Hospital.  As sponsors of this event, local businesses, organizations and individuals decorate the trees in a sometimes wacky, often irreverent, and always beautiful fashion, the trees are displayed throughout The Fairmont Empress over the holiday season, beginning November 19, (this year of 2009) with the kick-off decorating gala through to January 4, 2010.

Kimberly, President of the BC Children's Hospital Foundation, and myself as judges.

When some contestants found out 'Capt. Jack' was one of the judges, I was given many gifts, one being a ginger bread cookie shown above. I donated all gifts back to BC Children's Hospital Foundation.

The Festival of Trees is open to the public who are encouraged to cast a ballot for their favourite tree.  Thousands of Festival visitors cast a vote each year, with each vote, they are entered into a draw for the People’s Choice Award Citizen Prize. Last year the event received over 8,000 votes.

Now in its 18th year, the Festival has grown to feature up to 75 trees.  It has become a treasured family tradition, community favourite and one of the most anticipated festivals in Victoria.

Last year this event raised a record $105,327.00 to support the urgent needs of BC Children’s Hospital.  Along with 4 radio and 2 TV media personnel, the Mayor and a member of our local Newspaper, I was honoured this year with an invite to be one of the celebrity Judges as Capt. Jack, and asked to come back next year.  Not only was this a spirited and heartfelt event full of enthusiasm,… the generosity was truly astounding.  I was thrilled to be welcomed on board and be a part of this brilliant Xmas Festival event!