(Additional photographs below.)
One of many trees on display at the Methuen Festival of Trees. (WHAV News photograph.)
The Methuen Festival of Trees kicked off its 2024 season Friday night with its First Night celebration.
The event gave 400 attendees an early preview of the more than 200 trees and wreaths while also serving food from local establishments and providing live entertainment. The Festival is now open to the public through Saturday, Dec. 7. Visitors may buy raffle tickets to win decorated trees and wreaths, take part in a $5,000 cash raffle, visit with Santa Claus and purchase gifts and homewares in an on-site gift shop.
Methuen Festival of Trees is open weeknights from 5-9 p.m. and weekends from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. It is closed Thanksgiving Day, but offers extended hours Friday, Nov. 29, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., at 13 Branch St., Methuen. Admission is $12 for adults and free for children under 10. It is also free to seniors Nov. 25 and 26 and Dec 2 and 3, from 9 a.m. to noon
The Festival has donated more than $2 million to historic preservation projects across the Merrimack Valley over the past 31 years.
An unusual and creative tree awaiting bids during the 2024 Methuen Festival of Trees. (WHAV News photograph.)