History of the Festival of Trees


Created in 1985, the Festival began with a display of 15 decorated trees in the University of Alberta Hospital itself.  Organized by 9 volunteers, this Festival of Trees raised $15,164.

Since then, the Festival has grown to become the largest annual event held at the Shaw Conference Centre with attendance of more than 30,000 people each year.  Currently, 23 volunteer committees organize and support all aspects of the Festival. 

There are over a hundred magnificently decorated trees and 150 other festive displays. A gingerbread village and uniquely decorated cakes are other attractions. 

Since its inception, the Festival has raised over $15,500,000. The benefits of funds raised by the Festival of Trees are felt throughout the University of Alberta Hospital and the Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute.

All photographs courtesy of Pat Marston.  

Donor Office - University of Alberta Hospital

1H1.91 WMC, 8440 – 112 Street NW, Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7

Donor Office - Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute

2A9.006 MAHI, 8440 – 112 Street NW, Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7


University Hospital Foundation

Phone: 780-407-7007 | Fax: 780-407-6603
uhfoundation@albertahealthservices.ca
  Charitable Registration Number  88900-3240 RR0001




Copyright 2010 University Hospital Foundation