Designers planning for Festival of Trees and Lights

MontBleu Convention Center is about to be transformed into a winter wonderland with trees and wreathes decorated by schoolchildren and local designers. The seventh annual Festival of Trees and Lights is Dec. 2-6.

All proceeds will support prevention programs and trauma services for Barton Memorial Hospital’s Level III Trauma Center.

During the day, as well as Friday evening, attendees can watch live holiday performances, purchase holiday gifts at Mrs. Claus’s Gift Shop, and bid on items in the silent auction. Each child receives a teddy bear and is invited to visit the Teddy Bear Hospital for an animal-friendly check-up. Barton Health’s nurses and doctors will be available to hear teddy bear ailments and provide X-rays, assessments, and bandages. Children can also write a letter to the North Pole, create crafts at the Gingerbread Junction, or take a family photo with Santa Claus.

Adults interested in an elegant evening may attend the gala on Dec. 5, Barton Health’s largest annual fundraiser for community health. It features a formal four-course dinner, a live and silent auction, and dancing.

Children, along with their parents, are encouraged to bring their teddy bears to a Teddy Bear Brunch on Dec. 6. Every child will receive a goody bag and a visit to the teddy bear hospital.

For a day-by-day schedule and more information, go online.

Entrance for public viewing is $3 for children or seniors and $5 for adults. The Teddy Bear Brunch and Gala, which typically sell out in advance, can be purchased online.