ILT Stadium Southland general manager Nigel Skelt said more than 15,000 people were expected to visit the event this year.
Businesses supply a tree, decorate it, and collect donations under the tree for a charity of their choice.
‘‘It's just fantastic, the spirit of Christmas, and it's about us giving something back to the community.’’
Twins Ally and Emme Fukuda (8) chose the Ministry of Justice’s Christmas tree as their favourite. They said the unicorn decoration and the colours attracted them.
Ally said decorating their own trees was one of their favourite holiday traditions.
‘‘But we also love the presents,’’ she said, laughing.
The Waihopai City Lions Christmas Tree festival is open weekdays from 4pm to 8pm and at the weekends from 10am to 4pm at ILT Stadium Southland.
