There was something for everyone over the weekend during the 5th annual Festival of Trees, which is one of the major fundraisers for the St. Joseph's Hospital Foundation.

It all got off to a great start with the Seniors Tea on Friday afternoon, and Marian Huber was quite happy with the turnout.

"These numbers are definitely larger than I thought they would be. They were just really engaged and enjoyed themselves. The pipers from the high school opened it up and they were fantastic, and people enjoyed the square round too. All in all, it was just really, really good."

There were a lot of happy faces as dads and daughters alike were treated to the Father Daughter Gala Tartans and Tiaras: A Celtic Celebration in support of the St. Joesph's Hospital Foundation's Festival of Trees.

"It's very nice," shared David Dzeryk who was there with his daughter Brooke. "I'm surprised how many decorations they actually have."

Brooke thought all the the lights and trees were really pretty. When asked about her favorite part, she quickly stated, "The stuffed animals!"

The floor of Affinity Place was packed for the fundraising dinner.

She also received a tartan and and was eager to get her dad offer to the candy bar to try out the treats. 

The Celtic themed event featured live stage highland dancing performances, games, crafts, a candy bar, dinner for both daughter and dad and even a visit from Disney's Merida herself.

There was also a raffle table and silent auction with all proceeds going to the St. Joesph's Hospital Foundation.

The main event of the weekend was the fundraising dinner on Saturday night, full of food, auctions and entertainment. 

READ MORE:5th Annual Festival Of Trees A Sell-Out

Following that late night, many folks returned the next morning for a pancake breakfast with none other than Santa himself, as well as some tired Estevan Bruins players, having just returned from a four game road trip.

"It's tough, especially after we got back late last night. But it's a great event, a great thing that the community put together, so I'm happy to be here," expressed defenceman Aigne McGeeady-Bruce.

Kyle Whitehead was among the parents who brought their kids, and he said his daughter was pumped for the occasion.

"She was excited to see Santa, and of course there was minions walking around, so she's super excited for that."

"I'm glad the St. Joseph's Hospital Foundation does this every year, and I hope that they keep doing it," he added.

Foundation Executive Director Becky Cassidy herself was pleased with the weekend overall as well.

"We were quite happy with our turnout. We were sold out for the fundraising dinner and we had lots of people here for the Father/Daughter Gala. We're very happy with the participation. We raised a lot of money, and we couldn't be happier. This event takes 200 volunteers, a lot of staff from the City of Estevan, and a lot of help from the people at the hospital, so we're just really grateful to everyone who helps."

"I think this year will be a very big total once we finally get it all added up," she concluded.

Some seasoned citizens enjoyed square dancing at the Senior's Tea.

 

 

 

 

The Father/Daughter was well attended.