The past weekend was wonderful for holiday lovers in Presque Isle.

Several annual holiday events such as the Holiday Light Parade and Craft Fair took place around town and got many residents out of the house. The Festival of Trees hosted at NMCC was among the most attractive ones. Started a decade ago as a small event, the annual Christmas fundraiser for the St. Apollonia Dental Clinic has become so popular that people travel from nearby counties and even Canada just to participate. People purchase tickets at the event and put them in different buckets for a chance to win Christmas trees and a variety of other prizes sponsored by local businesses. Doing something good while potentially winning gift cards, TVs, and even high-end skiing gear, no wonder it’s such a hit.

The Festival of Trees this year welcomed long lines of visitors, as usual. Students and staff from PIHS were also spotted. Guidance Director and long-time Tree Festival fan Mrs. Reed said, ”Though I didn’t win anything this year, I’m still grateful that I’ve won two when the event first began.” Wildcat alum Megan Robinson ’23 was on this year’s list of winners, winning the tree from McCrum Family Holdings. “This is my second time ever participating and my first win,” Robinson said. “In my win there’s the tree itself, a bunch of dog grooming stuffs, toys and dog beds. My six dogs will very much enjoy all the dog things.” Attending NMCC right now, Megan also got to see the set up of the show.

This year was also my first time shooting my shot at the event, and though I too didn’t win anything, it was great to go out and feel the holiday vibe. If you didn’t know about this happening, save your luck for next year.