Festival of Trees brings the holiday spirit alive in unique trees, virtual auction; Nov. 28 open house planned
- Janine Smith Citron
- Posted On
LAKEPORT, Calif. – COVID-19 may be disrupting our lives and forcing us to socially distance but it won’t dim our holiday spirit.
Hospice Services of Lake County has transformed the original “Festival of Trees” gala event into a public display of spectacularly designed Christmas trees and a virtual auction.
The fundraising event supporting the Wings of Hope Bereavement program for children and special needs of Hospice patients runs through Dec. 1.
Community members are invited to view the 27 beautifully designed trees at local businesses and visit the virtual auction site to bid on the uniquely designed trees and other auction items available.
The auction site may be viewed at https://hslcfestivaloftrees2020.ggo.bid.
Online bidding closes on Dec. 1 at 4 p.m.
“Photos of trees taken by local professionals are located on the bid site with a description of each tree and some include wonderful heartfelt stories of loved ones,” said event organizer and staff community relations manager, Beth Havrilla. “However an ‘in-person’ viewing of trees really captures the amazing detail that each designer has put into the decorations.”
Havrilla said business owners are adhering to COVID-19 precautions where trees are located for your safety.
All trees were donated and designed by local Lake County individuals and businesses.
“My family is dedicated to participating in this meaningful event each year,” said Hospice Services Board member Patty Brunetti. “I personally experienced the compassionate services Hospice of Lake County provides when the team cared for my mother at the end of her life. This is my way of supporting Hospice so they can continue providing the same wonderful care to other community members.”
Brunetti’s donated tree is on display at Red’s at The Skyroom in Lakeport.
On Saturday, Nov. 28, community members are encouraged to attend an “open air” open house in downtown Kelseyville highlighting the Festival of Trees from 3 to 6 p.m.
Many trees can be viewed with the full effects of holiday lighting throughout the downtown community.
During the event, meet new Hospice Executive Director Cindy Sobel at A+H General Store from 4 to 6 p.m.
There are 20 festive tabletop centerpieces available to purchase made by Hospice Services volunteers Peggy Landini and Nikka Deacon. Proceeds will support the “Joy in a Vase” project that distributes floral arrangements to Hospice patients and families. The auction site also includes an opportunity to donate directly to the Wings of Hope program.
Hospice Services a nonprofit health care organization is celebrating its 41st anniversary, providing compassionate comfort care for patients and families experiencing life-threatening conditions.
The Wings of Hope Bereavement camp and school-based counseling program is an opportunity for children in the community to receive professional support when someone special in their life has died. These services are available due to the generous support from community members and fundraising.
For more information about the Festival of Trees contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 707-263-6222.
Janine Smith Citron is director of development for Hospice Services of Lake County.