The public event will feature family fun, holiday story time, presents for kids, photos with Santa

With the holidays just a jingling bell away, Community Housing & Resources (CHR) is getting the islands in the spirit with its second annual Winter Wonderland Festival of Trees.

Local businesses and public spaces will display 12 holiday trees creatively adorned by area artists and supporters. Then, on Nov. 21, the public is invited to experience these festive works, along with 10 artistic wreaths, in one place—and bid to own their favorites—at the Community House, 2173 Periwinkle Way. Proceeds will support CHR’s mission to provide affordable housing.

“Last year’s Festival was such a magical event, celebrating the holidays and the talents of local artists. We’re excited to give our islands the chance to experience that magic again,” said Nicole McHale, Executive Director of CHR.

Locations where holiday trees will be displayed ahead of the public event are Bank of the Islands (design by Zonta Club of Sanibel-Captiva), Beach Daisy Coast Clothing (design by Keelie Bloom), Cielo (design by On Island with Alison Womack), Congress Jewelers (design by SanCap 100+ Women Who Care), Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille (design by Gabriella McNeilus and Laura Gales), Ibis Grill (design by Noah’s Ark Thrift Shop), Jerry’s Foods (design by Children’s Education Center of the Islands [CECI]), SanCap Pack-N-Ship (design by SANCAP PINK Project), Sanctuary Golf Club (design by CĒLĒBRER Design Studio), Sanibel Public Library (design by Trailways Camps), Sanibel Recreation Center (design by Sanibel School Fund), and Toys Ahoy (design by Toys Ahoy).

CHR’s Winter Wonderland Festival of Trees Community Day takes place Saturday, Nov. 21, starting at 11 a.m. Family activities, with children’s events including games, storytime, and photos with Santa, will continue through 3 p.m. Refreshments and a cash bar will be available. For the daytime event, admission is free for children up to age 18; adults are asked to donate $5 to CHR. From 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., the ticketed benefit will include a silent auction, allowing attendees to bid on holiday trees and wreaths. Benefit tickets are $100 and available at sancapchr.org/festival-of-trees/

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