The Victoria Festival of Trees is a forest like no other. This year, the halls of the Fairmont Empress, the Best Western in Port Alberni and the SEAPARC Leisure Complex in Sooke will be magically transformed into a lush forest of beautifully decorated Christmas trees - all to raise funds for sa国际传媒 Children's Hospital.
The event starts Tuesday and continues until Jan. 4.
The festival, now in its 21st year, raised more than $131,000 for the hospital last year.
The trees are decorated by sponsors - including the sa国际传媒 - local businesses, organizations and individuals. Visitors can vote for their favourites.
Last year, more than 15,000 votes were cast over the seven weeks the trees were on display.
Past winners of the People's Choice Award include the Super Nurses for Super Heroes, decorated by Victoria General Hospital nurses.
The sa国际传媒 Children's Hospital Foundation publishes a map so visitors can locate the 78 trees on display at the Empress this year.
Trees range from traditional to wacky, with an upside-down tree one year. Viewing is free.
Those who choose to vote are encouraged to make a minimum $2 donation.
The trees are open for viewing until 11 p.m. daily. For more information, go to bcchf.ca.
