The City of Gainesville is getting ready to host the fifth annual Festival of Trees for the Christmas Season.
The Festival of Trees will be happening simultaneously with Main Street Gainesville’s Jingle Mingle and Lighting of the Chicken from 4 to 8 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 23.
The Festival of Trees will be taking place on the first floor of the Gainesville Administration Building, located at 300 Henry Ward Way.
“The City of Gainesville organizes the annual Festival of Trees, which has grown in attendance every holiday season since introduced in 2020. Our creative and talented employees help bring this magical seasonal offering to life,” said Public Relations Director Christina Santee-Moss. “Not only does the public get to enjoy a beautiful collection of themed Christmas trees, but for one night only, they get to vote for their favorite(s) during Jingle Mingle and the Lighting of the Chicken in downtown Gainesville.
“Without a doubt, Jingle Mingle and the Festival of Trees is the perfect holiday pairing to kick off the most wonderful time of year,” Santee-Moss said.
Guests will be welcomed into the building via the north side entrance that faces Roosevelt Square.
After viewing the trees and casting their votes, visitors will exit through the front doors and will be greeted by City staff serving hot cocoa, hot apple cider and cookies.
“Take a seat, enjoy a few treats and a breather before returning to the Jingle Mingle festivities on the historic and Roosevelt squares – just don’t miss the Lighting of the Chicken outside Main Street Market at 6:45 p.m.!” Santee-Moss said.
Voting for the Festival of Trees will take place on Nov. 23, but those who can’t attend may view and photograph the trees any time from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday through Christmas.
In observance of the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, City administrative offices will be closed Thursday-Friday, Nov. 28-29, and Tuesday-Wednesday, Dec. 24-25.
Parking outside the administrative building is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Visitors can find free and covered parking at any one of the following downtown parking decks, all located within walking distance to the holiday fun: Main Street Parking Deck, 301 Main St.; Gainesville North Parking Deck, 100 Brenau Ave.; and Hall County Parking Facility, 225 Green St.
For more information on the Festival of Trees, visit this link.
Find additional information about Jingle Mingle here.
