Festival of Trees Nov 25 - Dec 25 at Grand Boulevard

Grand Boulevard’s fifth annual “Festival of Trees” will showcase 12 uniquely decorated Christmas trees from area non-profit organizations, Nov. 25 – Dec. 25 in Grand Park. The public is invited to attend the kick-off on Tuesday, Nov. 25, 4 p.m. – 6 p.m., as the trees are lighted, judged on their decorations and winners are announced at 6 p.m.  A People’s Choice winner will be selected by the voting public that night as well. Abrakadoodle will provide festive holiday face-painting, making it a fun kickoff to the holidays for the entire family.
 
This year’s participating organizations are: Building Homes for Heroes, Emerald Coast Relay for Life, Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center, Children’s Volunteer Health Network, Children in Crisis, Junior League of the Emerald Coast, Destin Charity Wine Auction Foundation, Alaqua Animal Refuge, The ARC of Walton County, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast, Heart Animal Rescue and Horizons.        

Alaqua Animal Refuge won the Best of Show and People’s Choice awards at the 2013 “Festival of Trees,” held annually in Grand Boulevard at Sandestin. The 2014 kickoff is Tuesday, Nov. 25 at 4 p.m. in Grand Park and the event runs through Christmas. “Festival of Trees” is free and open to the public.

The non-profit organizations are competing to win cash prizes totaling $5,000, including Best of Show and People’s Choice. The People’s Choice winner will be voted on and announced along with Best of Show and Second Place winners at the kick-off, Nov. 25 at 6 p.m. For the People’s Choice Award, the public will be able to vote for their favorite tree at Grand Park and the tree with the most votes will win the People’s Choice award.
 
Last year, Alaqua Animal Refuge won both the Best of Show and People’s Choice, taking home $4,000. The trees will be on display through Christmas and open to the public to enjoy at no cost.   

 
Grand Boulevard is the shop, dine, play and stay Town Center located on Northwest Florida’s Beaches. Based on the prominent mixed-use architectural model, Grand Boulevard offers a dynamic lifestyle experience with convenient access to a multitude of exclusive shopping and dining options, entertainment, professional services, corporate offices and lodging. For more information, please call (850) 654-5929 or visit www.grandboulevard.com.