Catholic Charities preps for 29th Saratoga Festival of Trees

SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. (NEWS10)-- An annual Catholic Charities fundraiser will soon light up the Saratoga Springs City Center. The 29th Annual Saratoga Festival of Trees is on display starting Thursday, December 5.

Each tree and wreath is decorated for the holiday season to create a showcase of festive designs. All proceeds from the event, including ticket sales, benefit the Catholic Charities of Saratoga, Warren, and Washington Counties.

The showcase opens with a reception on Wednesday, December 4, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for seniors, and $5 for kids ages 10 and up. The hours of operation are listed below, including a day with special admission prices.

Hours of operation

• Thursday, December 5, 4-9 p.m. with $5 admission
• Friday, December 6, 3-8 p.m.
• Saturday, December 7, 11-7 p.m.
• Sunday, Dec 8, 11-2 p.m.

A new addition to the tradition is a Tinsel and Tonic Happy Hour on Friday, December 6, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Local bars like Whitman Brewing Company, Wheatfields, Henry Street Taproom, and others will mix cocktails for participants.

Breakfast with Santa and Sundaes with Santa will also return for $10 a ticket, including breakfast or sundae, a tour of the Festival of Trees, and children's activities. The first of two breakfasts on Saturday, December 7, is from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Sundaes with Santa is from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tickets are only sold in advance.

General admission tickets can be purchased at the door during festival hours, while special event tickets can be purchased online through the Catholic Charities website. Catholic Charities of Saratoga, Warren, and Washington Counties Executive Director Jolene Munger said the cherished event brings the community together in the spirit of giving and celebration.

"This event not only spreads holiday joy, but also supports our mission to assist those in need," Munger said. "We are excited to welcome everyone to this year's Festival, where every ticket purchased and every tree admired helps us continue our vital work in the tri-county area."