Festive, fun and worthwhile!
Festival of Trees is a unique community fundraiser that
supports programming, services, shelter, training, information
and resources to address domestic and sexual violence in
the Outer Banks.
Festival of Trees brings together individuals, families, businesses and
organizations to celebrate the holiday season with twinkling lights,
festive musical performances, punch and homemade cookies, craft
activities for children, a visit with Santa complete with a souvenir
photo, and shopping for one-of-a-kind gifts.
The culmination of the Festival is an auction of donated,
decorated Christmas Trees and Holiday Objects at a
catered Gala Holiday Social.
Participation
There are a variety of ways to become involved in the Festival of
Trees from sponsorship to donating a tree to attending any one or all
of the planned events. All of the events are open to the public free of charge except for the Saturday evening Gala Holiday Social and Benefit Auction, which requires purchase of a ticket to attend. Festival of Trees is fresh and new each year —
a not to be missed Outer Banks holiday tradition!
Sponsorship
A tax deductible contribution specifically made to produce the event or to jump start the fundraising purpose of the event will receive special recognition in advertising for Festival of Trees including radio, newspapers, posters and the event program. For more information on sponsorship opportunities, contact the Hotline business office at 473-5121.
Christmas Trees
A business, organization or individual may decorate one of fifteen full-sized trees in the theme of their choice for the Festival. A 6-8 foot fresh tree (provided) will be set up at the Decorating Party. Christmas Trees are usually decorated around a theme and the Christmas Tree contributors bring their decorations, gift certificates and gifts to the party where they will carefully wire the lights and ornaments to the tree (the trees are delivered intact to high bidders following the auction!). A complimentary dinner will be served in the Outer Banks Brewing Station. A cash bar is available and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages will be served throughout the evening. The decorated trees will be displayed to the public throughout the Festival, and the lucky high bidder at the Benefit Auction on Saturday evening will win the tree and all of the accompanying gifts and/or certificates.
Holiday Objects
Tabletop trees, wreaths, and other holiday objects are also welcome additions to the auction. Past donations have included traditional wreaths, stained glass creations, carved decoys, hand-made furniture and local artwork. Contributors are invited to bring their unique items to the Decorating Party and then stay to enjoy an evening of good food and fun!
Silent Auction
Gift certificates — including vacation packages, dinners, lessons and services — gift baskets, handcrafted gifts and other unique items donated by local individuals, businesses or organizations will be collected and displayed during the three days Festival of Trees is open to the public. Those interested in an item can choose to place a silent bid or “Buy it Now!” option. The silent auction concludes with Family Night festivities.
50-50 Raffle
Half the grand total of proceeds from tickets sold from August until Auction night will go to the winning ticket holder. The remainder will go to Hotline.
Bucket Raffle
Buy one ticket or buy as many as you want to “stuff the bucket” for a drawing
of a prize you choose from a selection of gifts donated by local merchants or artists. The more tickets you stuff, the greater your chances of winning!
Holiday Bazaar
Bargains abound in the one-of-a-kind sale of holiday and festive items saved from Hotline Thirft Shops throughout the year. Endless Possibilities, Hotline’s recycled weaving program, will display and sell their fine handmade woven items, including small rugs and table runners, scarves, Christmas stockings, handbags, and even clogs. Fun shopping for unique gifts up to the afternoon of the Auction.