Festival of the Tree 2009

Westonbirt Arboretum is hosting its annual Festival of the Tree 2009, celebrating trees and their many uses with a week of family events and activities.

A week-long celebration of nature will take place at Westonbirt Arboretum once again this summer, when the Festival of the Tree 2009 takes place between Monday 24 and Monday 31 August 2009.

Visitors to Westonbirt from across Gloucestershire and beyond will be able to get involved in a series of displays, workshops, stalls and activities for families during the special week, which has become one of Westonbirt Arboretum’s most popular signature events of the year.

Once again, throughout the eight days, visitors can watch an international team of 12 master carvers transforming trunks of Westonbirt’s trees into intricate artworks in the Sculptree display, culminating in a fundraising auction being held at 3pm on bank holiday Monday 31 August 2009 to support TREE AID.

Little and big ones alike can also take part in the organised Family Tree events throughout the week as well, making a wand with the Fairyland Trust, playing a game of wooden skittles, hopping on the traditional wooden fairground rides, following the William Woodworm Activity trail, or listening to storytelling and Punch and Judy shows.

Throughout the week, there are also woodwork master classes and demonstrations from leading experts and a range of live entertainment all packed into the annual event.

During the weekend of Friday 28 to Monday 31 August 2009, the Festival of the Tree culminates with a huge crafts fair with more than 150 stands selling traditional crafts and contemporary wooden wares to Westonbirt’s visitors.

The weekend will also see more opportunities to get hands-on experience in Working Woodlands, where all ages can help make a willow structure. Plus, don’t miss the chance to get an expert’s insight into Westonbirt on a guided walk.

Visit forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt for more information.