The Festival of Trees, the signature fundraising event of The Arc of Rowan, showcases a collection of beautifully decorated Christmas trees and serves as a kick-off to the Christmas season.

The trees in the Festival are sponsored by anyone interested in helping The Arc of Rowan. The decorated trees are then put on public display for visitors to enjoy.

This year’s Festival opens Friday, Dec. 1 from 7-9 p.m. and continues on Saturday, Dec. 2 from 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

Storytime is at 1 p.m. and Santa & Mrs. Claus will make an appearance at 1:30 p.m.

The tree display will continue Sunday from 1-5 p.m., with storytime at 2 p.m. and Santa & Mrs. Claus arriving at 2:30 p.m.

The event takes place at F&M Trolley Barn, 127 East Liberty St. It is free to the public.

Learn more at www.thearcofrowan.org or 704-637-1521.