Festival of Trees kicks off the holiday season

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI/KIDK) - It may be mid-November, but the Christmas spirit is in full swing at this year's "Festival of Trees" in Idaho Falls.

"We love coming in and just enjoying the festivities and everything that they have all the efforts that they put into it," said annual visitor, Brianne Francis. 

The festival has helped launch very merry seasons here for 45 years.

"It's a great way for the community to come together and to kick off the holiday season," said Festival board of directors president, Amy Kidwell.

The festival is much more than just sparkling lights and beautiful sights, proceeds from the event benefit the development workshop which enhances the lives of people with disabilities.

"I hope people feel the spirit of Christmas when they come, I hope that they feel a sense of community. I hope that they feel like they are supporting a great cause because they are," Kidwell said.

Santa visits, holiday music, food, raffle prizes and of course beautifully decorated Christmas trees that are for sale, are among the many things visitors can enjoy. 

"We are happy to have talented people will come and create these beautiful trees," Kidwell said.

Talented people that pull off the 2-day set-up of the yearly event anticipated by the community, and especially the students from the development workshop. 

"They love the festival. It is like the favorite time," said CEO of Development Workshop, Mckayla Matlack.

The festival will go on daily at the Shilo Inn (780 Lindsay Blvd, Idaho Falls) from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and it ends on Friday.