10-24-2022 (Akron, Ohio )
Holiday cheer returns in-person this year as the volunteers of Akron Children’s Hospital will host the 41st annual Holiday Tree Festival Nov. 12-19 at the John S. Knight Center in downtown Akron. Admission to the festival is free.
Originally founded in 1982 as a way for families to celebrate the holiday season, the 2022 festival will feature more than 135 decorated trees, as well as more than 70 wreaths and hundreds of other holiday gifts. There will also be a retail table with items like holiday decorations, figurines, coloring books, bows and more that can be purchased and taken home the same day.
All items on display are donated by local corporations, groups and individuals and will be available for immediate sale to benefit the hospital.
The festival also includes local entertainment. Since its beginning, the Holiday Tree Festival has raised nearly $6.7 million to benefit the continued efforts of medical research, education and patient care programs at Akron Children’s.
“For 41 years, the Holiday Tree Festival has been a holiday tradition for families in Akron and the surrounding communities,” said Mary Leuca, festival chairperson. “We are so excited to be back in-person this year, and hope people will continue that tradition this year and come enjoy this beautiful display as we welcome the 2022 holiday season.”
The 2022 Holiday Tree Festival will be open to the public:
Saturday, Nov. 12: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Sunday, Nov. 13: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Monday, Nov 14- Friday Nov. 18: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 19: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
As part of the festival, the public is invited to attend several special events including:
Preview Gala
Friday, Nov. 11 at 5:30 p.m.
Guests will enjoy a sneak peak of the trees before the festival opens to the public and enjoy dinner and the popular dessert buffet, as well as a silent auction. For tickets, corporate tables or sponsorship opportunities, call the Akron Children’s Hospital Volunteer Services at 330-543-8424. RSVP by Nov. 1
Breakfast with Santa
Saturday, November 12: 8:30 a.m.
Saturday, November 19: 8:30 a.m.
Enjoy breakfast, holiday sing-a-long, and visit with Santa. Call Akron Children’s Hospital Volunteer Services at 330-543-8424. RSVP by Oct. 31.
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Saturday, Nov. 12 at 10 a.m.
The festival officially opens to the public with a ribbon cutting ceremony. People of all ages are welcome to see the trees and enjoy the family-friendly activities.
For more information about the Holiday Tree Festival, visit akronchildrens.org/treefestival or call the volunteer department at 330-543-8424.
