Festival of Trees 2020 A Magical Holiday Tradition Reimagined

For decades, the bright lights of the Festival of Trees have been a signal of the start of the holiday season in Erie and a beacon of joy and good will.

Despite the social distancing limitations brought about by COVID-19, the 36th Annual Festival of Trees is a go for 2020, with a magical new socially-distanced twist, according to an announcement by AHN Saint Vincent Hospital, part of the Allegheny Health Network, today.

As always, the trees will be a highlight of the event and guests will have the opportunity to virtually view and vote on their favorite holiday creations. In keeping with COVID-19 safety protocols, friends and families will be greeted at the Festival’s new drive-through light experience. The drive-through experience will include beautiful light displays, visits to rooms in Santa’s Castle, live reindeer and fun, safe holiday takeaways.

The Festival of Trees 2020 drive through event will take place along a two-mile route in the Fairview Business Park at 7251 Klier Drive in Fairview on November 27-29, from 5 to 9 p.m.

“As the community feels isolated with the restrictions of COVID-19, we believe it is more important than ever to uplift kids and families with the light and color and holiday spirit that the Festival of Trees brings,” said Executive Director of Development at AHN Saint Vincent, Christine Bowen. “We wanted to put a new spin on our community tradition that will give families a reason to celebrate and to be safe at the same time.”

The Festival of Trees benefits Saint Vincent Hospital and the Children’s Miracle Network. Proceeds of this year’s event will support the creation of a Healthy Food Center at AHN Saint Vincent Hospital to help food insecure patients and their families.  Through the Center, our patients will have access to healthy foods and nutrition counseling to help manage their overall health, no matter their income or budget. 

In addition to attending the event, the public can get involved in this popular holiday experience by donating gently used outdoor lights and becoming a sponsor. For more information, contact the Office of Development at (814) 452-5961.