So much more than trees

  • Attendees enjoyed festive photos with Santa.
  • Staff at Pathway pose for a photo during the Festival of Trees event.
  • Doors were decorated for judging by attendees. This particular door was themed “Santa’s Stuck.”
  • This topper to the “All is Merry and Bright!” tree is by designers of Rammelkamp Bradney, P.C.
  • A tree designed by Jena Barkley of Pathway Services Unlimited, Inc. and titled “Hogwart’s Gryffinbranch” was one of the trees on display.
  • Designer trees sparkle and create a pretty scene down a hallway at Pathway.
  • Mercedes DeSilva painted faces during the event. Here, DeSilva paints a “Grinch” on Amelia Birk, of Waverly.
  • Members of Jacksonville Interact volunteer with activities in the children’s room.
  • “Jack Frost” poses for a photo at the event with Ella Heck.
  • Creative, handmade wreaths lined a wall at the event.
  • Staff at Pathway welcomed guests to Festival of Trees.
  • Attendees enjoyed festive photos with Santa.
  • Fittingly, a snowman was the ‘snow machine’ shooting snow into the air at the entrance to the event.

Pathway’s annual festival fundraiser showcases activities, winter characters and auctions

By Kyla Hurt
Photos/Kyla Hurt

The 2024 Festival of Trees took place at Pathway in Jacksonville on Saturday, Nov. 23 and Sunday, Nov. 24.

Saturday was full of activities, including “Breakfast with Santa,” holiday music, cookie decorating and pictures with “Jack Frost,” kids’ games and activities, a story time room and more. The final spot of the day was in the Dr. Jason McDowell Community Room, where Bow-Wow Bits (dog biscuits made by people supported at Pathway), Christmas crafts (made my people supported at Pathway), historical ornaments, Terri Lynn Nuts & Candies, and more were all for sale. Additionally, there were treats and drinks for sale that were made by the Pathway Cooking Club.

Tree viewing began at 11 a.m. on Sunday, with the auction starting at 1 p.m.

The event showcased designer trees, wreaths and centerpieces, many themed and created by local businesses, organizations and supporters.

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