Annual Festival of Trees

By Andy Chandler

The annual Festival of Trees at Crawfordsville’s Cornerstone Masonic Lodge is now open to the public. In it’s sixth year, this has becoming a staple of the Crawfordsville Christmas experience. Guests can visit and view and vote for their favorite among more than 70 different Christmas trees, courtesy of local civic and business organizations. 

I recently sat down with Cornerstone’s board president, Yvonne Ratcliffe. Ms. Ratcliffe’s father was a member of the Lodge that met in this building and she has fond memories of coming there when she was younger. 

Ten years ago, the Lodge was turned over to the Crawfordsville Masonic Temple Foundation which has run the facility ever since. 

Guests who are visiting will be able to purchase raffle tickets for an assortment of prizes and also vote on their favorite tree. 

Proceeds of this annual fundraiser will be for the maintenance and upkeep of the facility. Ms. Ratcliffe stated that the goal isn’t just about raising funds, but to “really give it back to the community.” 

The community is invited to visit on the following dates: 

12/5: 1-9 p.m. 

12/6: 4-9 p.m. 

12/10: 1-5 p.m.

12/12: 4-9 p.m.

12/20: 4-9 p.m. 

12/21 4-9 p.m. 

Tickets are: 
Adults $8     Senior (65+) $5    Children (3-10)  $5   Under 2 Free