Getting into the holiday spirit with the Festival of Trees

TOWN OF WATERTOWN, New York (WWNY) - There was no sign of anyone stealing Christmas spirit in Watertown Friday.

”We’re counting down! One month from today!” and ”After Thanksgiving, the Christmas decorations are coming out!” could be heard by people out and about in Watertown.

At the Salmon Run Mall, decorations are out, and there are lots of them.

“They’re all unique in their own way, and they’re all amazing,” said Ivan Schell.

In the former Bon-Ton store, Christmas trees stood for the annual North Country Festival of Trees.

“This really kicks off the Christmas season,” said Shawna Cutuli Deputy CEO of the Watertown Family YMCA.

Businesses that donate trees to be auctioned off have the opportunity to decorate the tree themselves or let others do it.

“This event wouldn’t be possible without the wonderful volunteers that we have setting up this event, working this event, decorating for this event,” said Dawn Atwood, Event Coordinator of the Samaritan Medical Center Foundation.

Volunteers helped decorate and assemble over 90 trees to help other parts of the community and-

“Proceeds go to the YMCA for their kids scholarships and the other half goes to Samaritan for different things the hospital might need,” said Atwood.

And sometimes these trees bring in a lot of money.

“$5000,” said Atwood.

More money, more people, and this year, more events.

“This year we have two new events: The Polar Express event that is free to the public, we have our gingerbread event that is also free to the public,” said Atwood.

Each year has a theme and this years’ will help you get in the holiday spirit.

”Peace, love, and joy,” said one volunteer.

The live auction will be December 1st.