A Christmas to Remember to Light Up Wenatchee in Five-Day Extravaganza

WENATCHEE - The 2023 Numerica Festival of Trees, themed "A Christmas to Remember," promises five days of festive cheer while playing a crucial role in supporting the Numerica Performing Arts Center (Numerica PAC). Scheduled from Wednesday, Nov. 15 to Sunday, Nov. 19, this event will span both the Numerica PAC and the Wenatchee Convention Center, offering a host of engaging activities. The festival is presented by Numerica Credit Union and is currently in search of Grand Tree Sponsors and creative Decorators for Mini Trees and Wreaths.

Marissa Collins, the Event Coordinator, emphasized the deep connection between the Numerica Festival of Trees and the local community, stating, “Joy, the arts, and our community is what ultimately connects the Numerica Festival of Trees to the Numerica PAC, this year, we are leaning into that to make it more widely accessible – so even more people can have a ‘Christmas to Remember’ at the Numerica Festival of Trees.”

Traditionally, local businesses, organizations, groups, and individuals contribute trees and wreaths to adorn the festival. This year, there are two categories to encourage broader participation:

- Sponsoring a Grand Tree, 4 feet or larger, is available for just $60.

- Decorating Mini Trees or Wreaths is free, making it accessible to all.

Grand Tree Sponsors receive recognition with a displayed logo, digital and social media spotlights, and two complimentary tickets to the Tannenbaum Auction on Nov. 19. Grand Trees valued at over $1,000 when decorated will be featured in the live auction, while those valued under $1,000 will be part of a silent auction closing at the Tannenbaum Auction. These trees, each a unique work of art, reflect diverse holiday themes that resonate with our local culture and cherished childhood memories.

Mini Tree and Wreath Decorators, whether businesses, organizations, groups, or individuals, are invited to express their creativity with their chosen themes. Those wishing to use a provided two-foot tree or 24-inch wreath can do so for a nominal $5 fee. In addition to Mini Trees and Wreaths, decorated holiday Centerpieces and Swags are also welcome donations for display during the festivities.

During the Festival, Mini Trees, Wreaths, Centerpieces, and Swags will be included in a raffle, allowing patrons to purchase tickets and enter them into a basket next to their preferred items during all Festival viewing hours. The raffle winners will be revealed on Sunday, Nov. 19, at the conclusion of the Tannenbaum Auction.

The Numerica Performing Arts Center will offer various holiday-themed events for patrons to enjoy and support throughout the Festival. A selection of these events, available for purchase in October, includes:

• Festival of Spirits Cocktail Competition on Wednesday, Nov. 15: A local competition featuring restaurants competing for the title of 'Best Cocktail' and other prizes.
• Public Viewing from Thursday, Nov. 16 to Sunday, Nov. 19: An opportunity to admire locally decorated trees, wreaths, and more, with chances to take these treasures home through raffles and a silent auction.
• Christmas Karaoke Competition on Thursday, Nov. 16: A lively event where local karaoke groups compete for top honors.
• Swanky Soiree on Friday, Nov. 17, and Saturday, Nov. 18: An elegant affair with dueling pianos, cocktails, and more.
• Teddy Bear Time on Saturday, Nov. 18: A family-friendly event with holiday stories and a visit from Santa Claus.
• Tannenbaum Auction on Sunday, Nov. 19: An auction featuring artfully designed trees, each offering a unique centerpiece for holiday celebrations.

To sponsor a Grand Tree or participate as a Mini Tree, Wreath, Centerpiece, or Swag Decorator, please visit www.fot.numericapac.org or contact Marissa Collins at fot@numericapac.org or call 509-663-ARTS (2787).