Although tickets for the Hermiston Festival of Trees’ gala evening event are sold out, people can still enjoy the festive holiday event during Family Day.
The community is invited to view the magnificently decorated trees and join the fun on Sunday, Dec. 8, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Hermiston Community Center, 415 S. Highway 395. Admission is free and includes lunch and a picture with Santa Claus.
Coordinated by the Soroptimist International of the Greater Hermiston Area, Family Day features live entertainment with the Hermiston High School choir, Jr. Jam Annex and Generation Cloggers. Also, Christmas crafts for the kids include jingle bracelets, spin art, cookie decorating and more. In addition, a special Storybook Corner will be presented by HHS Education Pathway students. For more about Family Day, search Facebook via bit.ly/3MEehBf.
In addition, tickets for a Toy Story-themed raffle tree will be sold during the evening gala and Family Day. Jeff Kelso, of the Hermiston Kiwanis Club, said the drawing for the 7-9-foot tree will be held at the end of Family Day.
Tickets are $10 each. Proceeds from the raffle tree will benefit the Second Grade Swim Lesson program at the Hermiston Family Aquatic Center. The Good Shepherd Community Health Foundation and the Hermiston Kiwanis Club are sponsoring the evening gala dinner and auction on Dec. 7 at the community center. This year’s live auction features 12 large trees and 13 tabletop trees. The silent auction includes 15 gift baskets, 12 wreaths and 12 stockings.
Event volunteer Julie Puzey said more than $83,000 was awarded in local scholarships between the two groups last year, and more than $260,00 was invested in projects that improve the community. For more information, search Facebook via bit.ly/3ESvaE0.
To inquire about the ticket waitlist for the gala dinner and auction, call Hermiston Parks & Recreation at 541-667-5018.
