BALTIMORE, SEPTEMBER 16, 2024—Kennedy Krieger Institute’s Festival of Trees marks its 35th anniversary this fall with a birthday party, special giveaways, fun photo opportunities, and a salute to both healthcare and education heroes.
The festival, an annual favorite for sponsors and participants alike, takes place Nov. 29-Dec. 1 at the Cow Palace at the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium. Fans of the family-friendly event can find the latest information here.
Since 1990, more than one million people have come to Festival of Trees for three days of tree viewing, gift shopping, Santa sightings, and all things holiday at this fundraiser for Kennedy Krieger Institute. The event has raised more than $27 million for the Institute—it is one of the largest holiday extravaganzas on the East Coast.
The annual event’s main attraction are the more than 600 trees, wreaths and gingerbread houses decorated by area businesses, community groups, schools and individuals. They are truly of forest of creative expression, often referencing trends from the current year, like popular songs, movies or personalities. Attendees can expect to see lots of lights, handcrafted ornaments, and elaborate tree skirts as well.
“It’s so exciting to see what our designers will create each year. This is the place to come to get inspiration for your own holiday celebrations, but also to appreciate the ingenuity of the companies and groups that participate in Festival of Trees,” said Linda Schaefer Cameron, vice president of philanthropy at Kennedy Krieger. “They are the highlight of this event.”
In addition, festival guests can enjoy carnival rides, games for kids, live entertainment and the opportunity to talk to Santa. Attendees also have the chance to do some holiday shopping—this year’s vendor village will feature more than 100 artisans, crafts people and small business owners
Other important Festival notes:
- Truist returns as the title sponsor for Festival of Trees and plans to give away a limited number of commemorative ornaments each day to festival guests.
- Saturday, Nov. 30 is Healthcare and Education Heroes Day, and those who work in healthcare or education receive a 50 percent discount on one ticket when they show a valid work ID.
- Sunday, Dec. 1 is Hometown Spirit Day and guests are encouraged to wear jerseys from their favorite local sports teams. There also will be a special Festival of Trees birthday party on Sunday morning with cupcakes and free rides for children.
“We are thrilled to say that we have partnered with the community for 35 years to make Festival of Trees happen,” said Brad Schlaggar, MD and PhD, president and CEO of Kennedy Krieger.
Find out more about Festival of Trees.
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About Kennedy Krieger Institute:
Kennedy Krieger Institute, an internationally known nonprofit organization located in the greater Baltimore-Washington, D.C., region, transforms the lives of more than 27,000 individuals a year through inpatient and outpatient medical, behavioral health and wellness therapies; home and community services; school-based programs; training and education for professionals; and advocacy. Kennedy Krieger provides a wide range of services for children, adolescents and adults with diseases, disorders and injuries that impact the nervous system, ranging from mild to severe. The Institute is home to a team of investigators who contribute to the understanding of how disorders develop while at the same time pioneering new interventions and methods of early diagnosis, prevention and treatment. Visit KennedyKrieger.org for more information about Kennedy Krieger.
