"Holiday Cheer Down South" marked the theme of this year's Fantasy of Trees, which began on Wednesday, Nov. 21 and and continued through Sunday, Nov. 25.  In the spirit of this year's theme a beach bum "Sand-a Clause" display welcomed Fantasy goers into the warmth of the southern holiday season. The festivities were held at the Knoxville Convention Center.

"Fantasy of Trees is a great way for families to get into the holiday spirit. There's a little something for everyone, and it's for a wonderful cause," said Ashley Summers, a sophomore in journalism and electronic media and a former Fantasy of Trees volunteer.

Holiday entertainment was plentiful for children and adults alike. Musical entertainment was in abundance with performances scheduled nearly every half hour.  There were many local church and school choir groups performing holiday tunes, along with multiple dance groups.    

There was plenty of shopping to be done with the sales of decorated trees, decorations and food, all benefiting the East Tennessee Children's Hospital.  Trees trimmed by local elementary school children, "Adopt-A-Trees," are perfect for those looking for a modestly priced, decorated tree with themes such as Bearden Elementary's "Storybook Christmas" and the Seymour Girl Scouts'  "Penguin Party."  These trees are all fully decorated and are priced between $200 and $400.  Although these trees are not lacking in holiday spirit there were more stylish "designer trees" available, which were donated by local area businesses.  These beautifully decorated trees were priced between $400 and $600. Wreaths and other seasonal knick-knacks were displayed throughout many booths.

Plenty of booths sold cookies, candies and the holiday favorite, gingerbread houses.  The "Gingerbread Village" was sponsored by area realtors and the many houses were decorated by school children, chefs and bakers, with some modeling Knoxville landmarks such as Market Square.  All of these tasty architectural wonders were available for purchase and were sure to please both the eye and the sweetest of sweet tooth.

While trees and decorations may satisfy adult shoppers, there were plenty of children's activities including a carousel, Christmas face painting and a visit with Santa.  Children also explored their creative side with cookie, ornament and plate decorating. Many of these activities were free while some only required a small contribution.

The weekend was full of entertainment, shopping and "Down South" holiday joy going all the way through.