With all the effort that goes into making the holidays special, the Friends of the Eau Claire Regional Arts Center will be helping out by hosting its first ever Festival of Trees at Ramada Convention Center. Artificial trees, wreaths, and garland, decorated by local artists and designers, and sponsored by local businesses and community members, will be auctioned off December 5-7. Money raised from the auctions will go towards refurbishing the State Theatre, as well as helping out other arts in the community. Festival of the Trees is an idea that Carole Spenser brought to the Chippewa Valley after seeing its power in Sheboygan. Eau Claire’s festival begins with a Champagne Reception on Friday night, featuring a live auction, appetizers, and entertainment. For those that haven’t reserved a seat, there are always the Saturday and Sunday activities to look forward to. Teddy Bear Teas, 9:30am on Saturday and 11am on Sunday, invites children (ages 2 to 10) to bring their favorite teddy bear, meet with Santa, and enjoy activities provided by the Eau Claire Children’s Museum. Reservations are also required and the cost is $11 for adults and $4 for children. While you’re there, bid for the decorated foliage in a silent auction and hope to take one home. Gene Leisz, the festival’s supervisor, found local artists such as Amy, from One of a Kind Design, and Nancy, from the Pottery Shed, to donate their time and money to help make this event possible. The event’s live entertainment features the Eau Claire Carolers and Elk Mound Singers, just to name a few.

    Festival of the Trees • Dec. 5-7 • Ramada Convention Center, 205 S. Barstow St. • 7pm on Friday, 10am to 5pm Saturday and Sunday • 832-2787