ST. GEORGE – From humble beginnings in 1981, to generating $6 million over the last 10 years, the Jubilee of Trees has become the largest showcase of custom-designed Christmas trees and wreaths between Salt Lake City and Las Vegas and a powerhouse fundraiser for Intermountain Healthcare’s Dixie Regional Medical Center. The 2013 Jubilee opens this week, with its fundraising theme of “In the Blink of an Eye,” because that’s how life changes. The goal aims to bring Trauma II Services, especially for severe head, spinal  and other neurological injuries, to Intermountain Healthcare’s Dixie Regional Medical Center.

Volunteer-driven with Southern Utah talent and hospitality, the Jubilee of Trees is a tradition attracting friends and neighbors to gather and welcome the holiday season. The Jubilee showcases a magical wonderland of custom-designed, full-size Christmas trees, mini- and table-top trees, holiday wreaths, gingerbread houses, gifts and seasonal décor.

Amid the trees, several special events, including Teddy Bear Picnic for children, a fashion show, concerts and a dynamic celebratory spirit, appeal to all ages.

The Jubilee of Trees is organized by the Foundation of Dixie Regional Medical Center and is the the hospital’s premier fundraising event.

The Jubilee of Trees was designed to generate money for the health care needs of the community – funds raised have helped to open the River Road facility, expand charitable lodging, secure Life Flight rotary air ambulance, enhance newborn intensive care, support breast cancer care, and introduce neurosciences and neurosurgery. From labor and delivery beds in the early 1980s to charitable lodging and cancer services in the ‘90s, the Jubilee of Trees has provided immeasurable support and funding, with thanks to a generous community.

This year, the goal is to enhance existing trauma care capability such that Trauma II services are available as many patients each year still require transport to a facility outside Southern Utah to receive life-saving care — especially for severe head, spinal  and other neurological injuries. As outlined on the Jubilee’s website, bringing Trauma II care to Southern Utah will enhance the health and quality life of its community members by:

• Ensuring the full spectrum of trauma care is available, here at home, when needed
• Preventing critically injured patients from losing precious time to care
• Sparing families the stresses and financial burdens imposed by travel for care
• Making a real difference in our community — from our regional neighbors to those closest to us

It all starts Wednesday evening with the Bar J Wranglers special ticketed concert, and doors open to the public  on Thursday through Monday, including Sunday, daily at 10 a.m.  Particulars follow.

Jubilee of Trees special ticketed events

• Wednesday, Nov. 20, 7 p.m. | Bar J Wranglers | $25 per person
  • Hailing from Jackson Hole, Wyo., the Bar J Wranglers concert provides a toe-tappin’ and knee-slappin’ night of pure talent and cowboy entertainment. The concert is two-parts music, two-parts stand-up comedy and all-out entertainment. Concert, chocolate fondue dessert, and a preview of the Jubilee showcase and shops await all who attend. 
• Thursday, Nov. 21, 11:45 a.m. | Chamber of Commerce Luncheon | $15 per person
  • The Jubilee Chamber Luncheon takes place amidst the wonder of the Jubilee trees, with keynote speaker Terri L. Kane, vice president of Intermountain Healthcare Southwest Region.
• Friday, Nov. 22, 6 p.m. | Gala Dinner & Auction | $125 per person
  • This elegant evening of socializing and gourmet dining is the premier event of the Jubilee of Trees. Guests at the Gala will receive first choice in a live auction as they bid on 15 of the finest custom-designed trees at the Jubilee, as well as items including one-of-a-kind trips, dazzling jewelry, magnificent works of art and much more.
• Saturday, Nov. 23, noon | Teddy Bear Picnic | $10 per person
  • One of the most beloved events the Jubilee of Trees, the Teddy Bear Picnic is a magical afternoon party for children and adults alike, where they will enjoy lunch, games and surprises with Teddy, Santa and other “unexpected guests.”
• Monday, Nov. 25, noon | Fashion Show Luncheon | $25 per person
  • The ambience of the holidays comes alive on the Jubilee of Trees fashion show runway. Guests will preview styles from local retailers that are totally “hot” for all the upcoming seasons.

Event recap – General admission

• When: Nov. 21-25
• Where: Dixie Center, 1835 Convention Center Dr., St. George
• Hours: Thursday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. | Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• General admission: Adults $5 | Children under 15 $1
• Website: Jubilee of Trees

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