LEWISTON — The holiday season is upon us. And for the Lewiston/Auburn area it kicks off  Saturday, Nov. 19, with the 11th annual FEZtival of Trees at the Kora Shrine Center, 11 Sabattus St. The even opens at 10 a.m. and run til 8 p.m.

Visiting the Center is quite an experience on its own, with its verdigris domes and exquisitely-carved windows. Once inside, its stunning, wall-to-wall murals alone leave no doubt as to why it is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

The FEZtival of Trees began 10 years ago as a fundraiser to keep the majestic building in operation. Each year it has surpassed the year before. Starting with 23 trees and 2,500 visitors the first year, it has grown to over 60 trees with more than 20,000 visitors last year.

How it works

The object of the FEZtival is to have organizations and businesses donate fully-decorated artificial trees that will be displayed throughout the event. The public is invited to come and see the extravaganza of trees as well as some special displays befitting the Christmas theme. A large, hollow candy cane is placed at each tree for visitors to deposit raffle tickets to take a chance on winning that tree.  At the end of the event a winner will be drawn from each tree and whoever’s name is drawn gets to take the tree home as well as all the decorations and gifts included by the sponsor of that tree.

The theme for this year’s FEZtival is “The Misfit Toys.”  Christmas trees, life-like toys and visions of the holidays will transform many of these historical rooms and hallways into a magical dreamland.

For those who like more than just magnificent trees and decor, there will be a raffle room with numerous items. Again this year the event will feature the Lottery Tree decorated with $500 worth of lottery tickets, a 50-50 raffle and last but not least, Reggie’s Sales and Service has donated an ice auger valued at $900. 

The aroma of popcorn, soups, pizza, baked goods and daily luncheon and dinner specials will lead visitors straight to the dining hall filled more than 25 crafters. 

Santa will be taking time out from his busy schedule for the entire week to listen to children’s Christmas hopes and dreams. And photos with the jolly-old elf will be available as well. The famous fishing pond will be open for the season to reel in toys and treats for the little ones.

Daily, live entertainment on the mezzanine will include Lionel Meservier, the Quintessence Brass Quintet and the Fairview Elementary Chorus. There are special FEZtival days for seniors, and the Chamber of Commerce.

For those who want to save time at the door in line, visit KoraShriners.org and check out the link to the VIP tickets. Tickets can be purchased online up to three hours prior to arriving.  Admission is only $2

After Saturday, the FEZtival schedule is as follows: Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Monday through Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Closed Thanksgiving, Friday, Nov. 25, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday, Nov., 26, 10 to 5 p.m.