URGENT UPDATE: The Town of Swampscott is set to launch its inaugural Festival of Trees from December 1 to December 6, 2023, promising to be a festive highlight for the community. Hosted at the former Clarke Elementary School, the event will run daily from 4 PM to 8 PM until December 5, followed by special hours from 12 PM to 6 PM on December 6.
Local officials are buzzing with excitement. Charlotte Daher de Garcia, Recreation Director, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “It’s something that, growing up, I’ve attended in various towns and cities. Having the space at Clarke Elementary School was a perfect excuse to bring it to town.” The festival aims to bring the community together in the spirit of the holidays, offering free admission to view creatively decorated trees and participate in craft activities.
While entry is free, attendees can enhance their experience by purchasing raffle tickets for just $5—25 tickets for the chance to take home one of the stunning Christmas trees. “People can simply come to view the trees, though if they do buy tickets, they can leave them with the trees that they like,” Daher de Garcia noted. Local students from middle and high schools will also volunteer, adding a personal touch to the crafting sessions.
Proceeds from the event will directly benefit the Recreation Department and its future programs at the Clarke building. Daher de Garcia hopes to cultivate a festive tradition that will allow local nonprofits to benefit from the festival in the years to come.
For those wishing to contribute, donations of trees or wreaths can be made online at https://swampscottma.myrec.com/info/default.aspx. The festival will also feature “holiday helpers” from the Town’s Senior Tax Work-Off program, further embedding community spirit into the event.
Daher de Garcia emphasized the emotional impact of the festival, saying, “I hope it helps get them in the holiday spirit. It’s just one more thing that the Town can offer people.” As the countdown begins, Swampscott residents are encouraged to mark their calendars and prepare for a delightful holiday experience.
As the festival approaches, stay tuned for updates and highlights from the event, as Swampscott comes together to celebrate the magic of the season!
