The 2025 Festival of Trees reached a milestone long hoped for by organizers, with all 100,000 one-dollar tickets sold during this year’s event—an all-time record for the Lac La Biche tradition.

A Goal 15 Years in the Making

Organizers initially aimed to sell 90,000 tickets, but with demand growing each year, the Lac La Biche Lions Club ordered a full 100,000. All were sold by 22 November, beating last year’s sellout time and surpassing the previous record of 80,000 tickets sold in 2024.

Reaching 100,000 sales has been an ambition since the Festival of Trees began in 2010. This year’s enthusiastic turnout reflected strong community support and the continued popularity of the one-dollar ticket price, which organizers believe keeps the event widely accessible.

Supporting Local Programmes and Community Groups

The $100,000 raised from ticket sales, combined with sponsorships, donations, and proceeds from two 50/50 draws, forms the core funding for the festival. In February, community groups that volunteered during the event will receive cheques for their contributions.

Before funds are distributed, $10,000 will be allocated to the Kids Are Worth It nutrition programme, which provides sandwiches and apples to students in local schools. Additional funds help cover festival operating costs, with organizers working to secure sponsorships to keep those expenses low.

A Full Week of Festivities

Running from 14–23 November, this year’s Festival of Trees featured a full schedule of activities and drew visitors from throughout the region. One of the biggest attractions was the display of 59 decorated Christmas trees inside the Bold Centre community hall. Each tree—sponsored by local businesses, groups, and individuals—was paired with themed items, all available to win through the one-dollar ticket draws.

On the final afternoon of the festival, all 100,000 tickets were bundled, and winners were drawn for each tree. The displays showcased significant creativity and community spirit, with sponsors spending the day decorating, socializing, and contributing to the festive atmosphere.

A Community Effort

Organizers credited this year’s festival’s success to the generosity of residents, the hard work of volunteers, and the longstanding tradition of giving that surrounds the event. The Festival of Trees continues to be one of Lac La Biche’s most cherished holiday celebrations, bringing people together while raising funds that directly support local families and programmes.