KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — An annual holiday event that attracts thousands of people to view hundreds of carefully crafted Christmas trees will soon return for its 40th year.
The Fantasy of Trees benefits the East Tennessee Children's Hospital, raising money to help the medical facility address different needs it may have. Last year, the event raised more than $1.8 million to support the hospital's neurology services.
The event technically begins on Nov. 26, when organizers host a special gala. Tickets cost $150 to participate in the gala and were sold out by Friday afternoon. The following day, Nov. 27, people have the chance to buy general tickets and explore the Fantasy of Trees.
During the event, people will be able to travel through a practical forest of 350 specially designed trees, with artists bringing their visions to life using a variety of accessories, mantels, designs and centerpieces. During the event, people have the chance to buy some of the trees if they want to decorate their own homes with them.
Organizers also host a raffle, where people have the chance to win a variety of prizes worth thousands of dollars. The grand prize of the raffle includes electronics and children's toys that families can put under the tree for Christmas morning. The second prize includes a package of power tools and accessories. Four gift cards are also available, worth $250 each.
There is also a holiday market where people can find holiday gifts and decorations, as well as food. Santa Claus will also stop by, giving families the chance to take pictures ahead of the holidays. Live bands will play throughout the event, and visitors can also explore a gingerbread village — taking in the sights and smells of gingerbread houses created by local bakers.
A schedule of the times when the event will run is available below.
- Wednesday, Nov. 27: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
- Thursday, Nov. 28 (Thanksgiving): 3 p.m. - 8 p.m.
- Friday, Nov. 29: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
- Saturday, Nov. 30: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
- Sunday, Dec. 1: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Tickets are available online, starting at $10 for adults and $5 for children between 4 years old and 12 years old. It will be held in the Knoxville Convention Center.
