Nocatee, Florida, hosts its Third Annual Festival of Trees on the evening of Saturday, Nov. 21, running from 4 to 9 p.m., according to The Ponte Vedra Recorder. The free event centers on sponsored Christmas trees that the public can bid on, with each tree's proceeds going to a charity chosen by its sponsor. It is one of several Festival of Trees fundraisers scheduled across the United States and Canada this holiday season.

How the Festival of Trees works

Local businesses, organizations and community groups sponsor a tree for $25, provide and decorate it, and pick a local charity to support. Visitors bid on the trees, and the highest bidder for each one takes it home. Proceeds go directly to the designated charity.

Read also ClearPath's Festival of Trees Returns to Redmond Dec. 5

A Holiday Market runs alongside the display, with booth spaces for vendors at $75 each, giving local artisans, makers and retailers a place to reach holiday shoppers. Admission is free.

Why you should go

  • Bidding supports local charities. Each sponsored tree sends its auction proceeds to the cause its sponsor selected.
  • You could take home a decorated tree. The top bidder for each tree wins the display itself.
  • It is free to attend. Guests can see the displays, bid and shop without paying admission.
  • The Holiday Market offers local shopping. Vendors and small businesses will sell their products at the event.
  • It suits families and community groups. The evening combines holiday displays, giving and a market in one place.

What to know before you go

The event takes place in Nocatee on the evening of Saturday, Nov. 21. Admission is free. Businesses and organizations can sponsor a tree for $25, and vendors can reserve a Holiday Market booth for $75. The brief does not list an exact street address or ticket requirements; readers should check with organizers for location, parking and vendor availability.

Jeff Tawney, meetings and events at the link, said in a statement that "every sponsored tree represents an opportunity to support a local charity."

FAQ

When is the Nocatee Festival of Trees?

It takes place on the evening of Saturday, Nov. 21, from 4 to 9 p.m., in Nocatee, Florida.

How much does it cost to attend?

Admission is free. Tree sponsorships cost $25, and Holiday Market vendor booths cost $75.