Oak Bay firefighters volunteer to recycle trees to kick off the New Year as a fundraiser for their foundation. (Courtesy Oak Bay Firefighters Charitable Foundation)
North Saanich and Sidney residents can recycle the Christmas tree at the North Saanich Firefighters Association events Saturday, Jan. 3 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at both the McTavish fire hall and Wain Road fire hall. Events include fire truck rides, hot dogs, hot chocolate, coffee and a no-sort bottle drive. The event is by donation with proceeds going to Santas Anonymous.
Those who need help moving their tree can call 250-656-1931 to arrange a pick-up for a minimum $20 donation.
Oak Bay Fire Fighters Charitable Foundation recycles trees by donation Jan. 3 and 4, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Firefighters' Park next to the fire hall off Monterey Avenue. Bartlett Tree Experts is supporting the event and will be on site periodically throughout the day. Funds raised go to the Oak Bay High bursary program, which was increased last year from $2,500 to $9,000 because of donations and fundraising efforts.
The annual tree recycling to raise funds for Easter Seals Camp Shawnigan - a fully accessible overnight summer camp program for children and adults with disabilities - returns with locations across the region to start 2026.
A great way to end the holiday season of giving, knowing your donation will help send children and adults with disabilities to camp, the sites are open Jan. 3 and 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Drop trees, and donations, at Tillicum Centre, Save-On-Foods at Fort and Foul in Victoria, West Shore Town Centre, Broadmead Village Shopping Centre, Mason's Store in Shawnigan and Thrifty Foods in Mill Bay.
Monterey Middle School hosts Christmas tree recycling and bottle drive on Jan. 4, 2026 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the staff parking lot at the Oak Bay school. Trees are taken by donation (suggested $10), to support the Grade 8 band trip.
The Oaklands Elementary PAC hosts its annual tree chipping fundraiser and bottle drive on Jan. 10 from 9 a.m. to noon at the school, 2827 Belmont Ave. Sponsored by Tomahawk Tree Service, recycling is by donation, suggested $10.
The View Royal PAC and View Royal FireSmart Program host Christmas tree chipping and bottle drive by donation on Saturday, Jan. 10 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at View Royal Elementary, 218 Helmcken Rd. Proceeds support the PAC.