Prince George, B.C. – It’s a holiday tradition in Prince George.

The 21st annual Festival of Trees kicks off November 21st running through to November 30th at the Civic Centre.

Presented by Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation, CEO Judy Neiser says after more than two decades it isn’t difficult keeping the event fresh and exciting.

“I wouldn’t say it’s difficult I think it’s exciting actually. We’ve got a huge team of volunteers (roughly 600) that literally plan like two to three years in advance. There’s a real energy around this.”

She also says festival goers can expect a few different things this year including the fashion show which has been moved from Wednesday night to Friday night along with changes to the jingle bell dance.

“It used to be just to dance. It’s now going to be a community Christmas party. So the small offices that wouldn’t have funds to rent a venue or decorate one can be combined into one.”

She says they don’t have a fundraising goal but notes $430,000 was raised last year with net proceeds going directly to healthcare in the north.

You can learn more at www.spiritofthenorth.ca.