The holiday season brings families together to celebrate, share traditions, and create memories. But for families facing cancer, this time of year can also bring uncertainty, emotional challenges, and financial worries. It is during these moments that compassion, understanding, and the support of a caring community can make a meaningful difference.

This November, Ann’s Place invites residents across Greater Danbury and the surrounding communities to come together for its 24th Annual Festival of Trees, November 20–22, at The Summit at Danbury. More than a beloved holiday tradition, the festival is an opportunity to bring hope and comfort to neighbors navigating one of life’s most difficult challenges.

This year’s theme, “Compassion Builds Community,” carries a message worth remembering: We may not be able to change someone’s diagnosis, but together, we can help make their journey less difficult.

For more than two decades, the Festival of Trees has brought people together around a shared purpose. Since 2003, the event has raised nearly $5 million to support local families affected by cancer.

Behind that impact is the work of Ann’s Place, an organization providing counseling, support groups, wellness programs, financial assistance, and educational workshops to individuals and families facing cancer. These services offer something invaluable: a place where people can find understanding, encouragement, and support when they need it most.

And each of us can help make that possible.

Throughout the weekend, The Summit will become a winter wonderland, filled with more than 200 beautifully decorated trees, holiday shopping, raffles, children’s activities, and live entertainment. Local businesses, schools, organizations, and volunteers contribute their creativity and generosity to make the celebration possible.

For those who have attended before, it is a chance to return to a tradition that continues to touch lives. For first-time visitors, it is an invitation to discover how a simple holiday outing can support something much greater.

The festival opens on Friday, November 20, from noon to 7 p.m., and continues through Saturday and Sunday, November 21–22, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. General admission is $10 for ages 3–64, $5 for seniors 65 and older, and free for children under 3.

Special events include Sip, Stroll & Shop on Friday, November 20, from 4–7 p.m., and Jingle & Mingle, an adults-only evening on Saturday, November 21, from 6:30–10 p.m.

But participation goes beyond purchasing a ticket. Residents can volunteer, sponsor, donate, invite friends, or simply help spread the word.

As Shannon Cobb, president and CEO of Ann’s Place, reminds us, every act of kindness helps ensure local families receive the support, hope, and resources they deserve.

Holidays remind us of what matters most: being present for one another, especially when life becomes difficult.

Imagine what we can accomplish when each family, business, and neighbor chooses to help.

This November, bring your family, invite a friend, or make a donation. Together, we can turn the joy of the holidays into hope for someone facing cancer.

For tickets, donations, and more information, visit annsplacefestivaloftrees.org or call 203-790-6568.