News release

Christmas Festival of Trees and Crafts

Natural Resources (to July 2018)

That time of year is here again -- when the smell of balsam fir gets excitement brewing and bells jingling. The 18 annual Christmas Festival of Trees and Crafts is inviting all Nova Scotians to get in the holiday spirit.

The event involves communities, industry and government in celebration of the natural balsam fir Christmas tree and its importance to Nova Scotia. The festival takes place at the Natural Resources Education Centre and the Musquodoboit Valley Education Centre, beginning on Friday, Nov. 30, at 6 p.m. and wrapping up on Sunday, Dec. 2, at 4 p.m.

Community groups and businesses decorate and display about 30 balsam fir trees, which are provided by the Natural Resources Education Centre woodlot, and the Lunenburg County Christmas Tree Producers Association.

The opening ceremony takes place on Friday, Nov. 30, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Natural Resources Education Centre. There will be greetings by special guests, the tree-lighting ceremony at 6:30 p.m. and festive entertainment by youth choirs and community groups.

On Saturday, Dec. 1, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 2, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Festival of Crafts will provide opportunities for visitors to browse through displays of Nova Scotia's finest crafts. The $1 admission provides access to more than 60 Maritime crafters, presenting a large variety of unique items. Visitors can also stop in to St. Nick's Café and enjoy a cup of warm apple cider and gingerbread served by local groups.

Many local businesses and organizations make donations to sponsor this community event. The community chips in to provide volunteers and baked goods.

For more information, go to www.gov.ns.ca/natr/extension/centre/christmas_festival_2007.html .

The Natural Resources Education Centre is located at 12014 Highway 224, Middle Musquodoboit. The Musquodoboit Valley Education Centre is located at 12046 Highway 224, Middle Musquodoboit. For detailed directions to the Natural Resources Education Centre, go to www.gov.ns.ca/natr/extension/centre/pdf/MiddleMap.pdf .