The lobby of the Waterfront Inn glowed again this year as Special Olympics Florida hosted its annual Festival of Trees, a holiday tradition that has become one of the most meaningful fundraisers in The Villages. 

Rows of decorated trees glittered, each one sponsored and designed by local businesses, organizations and individuals who return year after year to support the athletes. The evening also included a silent auction, donated gifts, and even a stuffed reindeer adoption table that drew steady attention from guests.

Sally Sherman, Special Olympics Florida director for Sumter County, says part of the magic is simply the way people react to Christmas trees. 

“There’s something about trees with all these pretty lights and decorations,” she says. “They’re just magic. It takes us back to being little kids and the magic of the season.”

She also says that that the creativity grows every year. “You think it can’t get better, and every year, it does.”

While the trees bring the crowds in, Sally notes that the purpose behind the evening is what fuels the work. “Number one, it’s a money raiser,” she says. “Funds help cover competition fees, equipment, wellness exams, uniforms, transportation and food.”

Over the years, the Festival of Trees has raised thousands of dollars for these essential needs.

This year’s lineup included trees designed by the Waterfront Inn, Evelyn & Arthur Boutique, Nancy Lou Mower, and dozens more. The Village Woodworkers Club once again created one of the most anticipated displays and representing the group, Dan Starling explained why their contribution means so much. 

“Every one of these little ornaments represents somebody who was doing something for us,” he says.  “This year, like in past years, we had members who passed away, and their families donated something they had made. We always take up a lot of real estate because our members put their hearts into it.”

Marty McKay of Liberty Park first got involved because of the trees.

“It’s such a great event and one of the major fundraisers in this area,” she says.

She originally designed a tree on behalf of the Parrot Heads club and from there, the organization asked if she would coach.

“I teach corn hole,” she says with a laugh. “And I love it.”

Athlete Bethany Stineman also attended, proudly sharing the sports she competes in: bowling, bocce, football and golf. 

“I like bocce,” she says, “because I went to the regionals and got second.” Bethany has been involved with Special Olympics since she was 8-years-old and at 25, she still enjoys competing, training and connecting through the program. 

She and other athletes shared the evening with coaches and family members and once again, will benefit from the kindness and creativity of the Villages community.

SpecialOlympicsFlorida.org remains open for those who wish to donate or learn more.