Almost as magical as Santa himself, a cold barren exhibit hall transforms into a warm, festive holiday haven.  This year, the magic of the "Festival of Trees, Through the Eyes of a Child," unfolds, and with it the hope and future of the abused and neglected children of Monroe County. CASA Monroe is the recipient of all proceeds. CASA Monroe advocates for the abused and neglected children of Monroe County.

The Tellico West Conference Center in Vonore will be transformed into a Winter Wonderland of designer decorated Christmas trees with themes such as, "Angels We Have Heard on High," Southern Elegance, Radio Flyer, Nutcrackers, Magical Holiday Flight, and the CASA Tree will be decorated with Teddy Bears that will be given to all of the children who CASA Monroe advocates for.  Friday Nov. 20, is the gala, the grand opening of this spectacular event.  Saturday morning Santa arrives on a Vonore Fire Department Truck to have breakfast with the children. Tickets are $5 for children and $10 for adults. Admission to the Festival is $7 for adults; $3 for children, and children under five years of age are free.  Tickets can be pre-purchased or bought at the door.

Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., this winter wonderland will be open for all to enjoy the trees, gift shops, bake shop, the entertainment, have a snack, shop at the vendors' booths, enjoying a family day and the Christmas spirit.

CASA Monroe, (Court Appointed Special Advocates), is a child's voice in court.  When children are removed from the only homes they know because of abuse or neglect and through no fault of their own, they are alone and frightened, CASA Volunteer Advocates are there for them.  Call the CASA Monroe office today at 442-2750 to pre-buy your tickets or for more CASA information.