Community gathers for the 28th Annual TreeFest, continuing a reforestation tradition since 1997

WILMINGTON, NC — TreeFest started in 1997 to help restore tree populations after hurricanes Bertha and Fran.
Households were invited to select up to five tree seedlings with a suggested donation of $5.

Donations for tree fest have funded over 100,000 trees, grasses, and shrubs in New Hanover County.

Amy Long is the chairperson for TreeFest. She said it’s always an exciting event for the community to support the local environment.

“I describe it as the Lorax Christmas. You get to give away trees for free, and everyone is so excited to receive these baby trees, shrubs, and grasses,” said Long.

Many species such as longleaf pine, bald cypress, and coastal white oak, were given out at the event. TreeFest continues Saturday at Independence Mall from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.