2024 Festival of Trees Returns for 27th year

Annual event supports Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services and Aspirus Family House

ROTHSCHILD, Wis. — The Aspirus Health Foundation will host its 27th Annual Festival of Trees during Thanksgiving week, November 27 through December 1 at the Central WI Convention +EXPO Center.

Festival visitors will stroll through a glittering wonderland of holiday trees, wreaths, decor, baskets, and specialty items decorated and donated by people in our community for a silent auction and raffle. The number of trees and items is the largest in recent years, with more than 160 items. Also new this year is an Aspirus pop-up gift shop on Wednesday and Friday, November 27 and 29.

A range of local musicians will be performing during the week and Santa will be on hand to visit with children during scheduled times as noted online. A Senior Stroll is back again on Wednesday, November 27, allowing older adults an opportunity to enjoy the festival in a more open setting and at a discounted price. Auction bidding closes Saturday, November 30 at 5 p.m.

Tickets for the Festival are available at the door for $5. There is no cost for children aged 2 and under. Special event tickets are available for the festival’s two featured events: an Opening Night Gala on Tuesday, November 26, that welcomes more than 350 guests, and a Teddy Bear Blast on Saturday, November 30, for the youngest of the festival participants and their furry friends.

“The festival not only marks the beginning of the holiday season, but more importantly, brings people together for a common cause to help those in need in our community,” said Kim Smerda, fund development specialist for the Aspirus Health Foundation. “It’s the perfect kickoff to the holiday season, with fun activities for every person, at every age.”

The Festival of Trees is the signature fundraiser for the Aspirus Health Foundation, with proceeds used to support Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services, including the Aspirus Hospice House, and the Aspirus Family House, which offers a safe, affordable place to stay for those traveling to Wausau for emergency or specialized care.

This year’s Festival of Trees Presenting Sponsor is Miron Construction. Media partners are WAOW News 9 and Midwest Communications.

“We are so grateful to the many committed volunteers, organizations and businesses that support this event and help transform the +EXPO Center into a winter wonderland,” said Lanna Scannell, Vice President of System Philanthropy with Aspirus Health. “The creativity and generosity of the individuals, families and businesses who participate is inspiring and means so much to the patients and families we serve.”

For more information, a full schedule of events, or to purchase special event tickets, please visit wausaufestivaloftrees.org.