It’s “Festival of Trees” season in Maine.

Hopeful winners of extravagant trees flock to the Anah Shrine Center for the Festival of trees, a yearly event that draws thousands to Bangor for two weekends in November.

Festival of Trees flyer
Hours and location for Bangor’s Festival of Trees.

Feztival of Trees” is the actual term.

The yearly tradition of the Festival of Trees, or Feztival, is put on by the Anah Shriners. , and named after their infamous headwear, the Fez. These gentlemen do it up here in Bangor. According to the Shriners, none of it would be possible without the constant support of their spouses and extended family. It truly is something to behold.

Enjoyment for all ages.

Each entry at the Festival of Trees is sponsored by a local business, with a particular theme. Some trees are geared toward children, and some for adults. When you win, you get the tree AND everything underneath, around, and on it. Everything from toys, tools, trips, lottery tickets, furniture, and outdoor equipment, and last year there was a 4-wheel ATV!

How do I win at the Festival of Trees?

The premise is simple. Buy tickets, and enter tickets into the bucket next to the desired tree. There are usually around 60 trees, so save tickets for the end! Circle back through the trees a second time, as you may have missed something on the first lap through. Winners are drawn the last Sunday evening of the Feztival and are notified by phone. Results will not be made public until all winners have been contacted.

Tree at the festival
One of the many trees to be won at the Festival of Trees.
Tree at the festival.
Another great tree full of gifts.

Check out these trees!

Here are a couple of samples from this year’s Festival of Trees. Spectacular. There is an opportunity to visit Santa and Mrs. Claus, and a cafe full of delicious treats for the family. Spend an hour or two here. (There will be a line at the entrance at peak times). In addition, find times and other important information in the top photo of this post. Enjoy, good luck, and Merry Christmas!

Have you ever won a tree at a festival like this?