You know that moment when the holidays finally hit you? When the lights start going up, the kids start humming Christmas songs, and suddenly you feel that warm little spark in your chest? For me, that moment happens every year at the Festival of Trees.
This year’s festival runs December 2 through December 6, 2025 at the Mountain America Exposition Center in Sandy,Utah and I’m already counting down. If you’ve never been, let me walk you through why this event is basically the official start of the holiday season.
A Tradition With Heart
Festival of Trees isn’t just about decorating halls with sparkly trees, although there are hundreds of them and they are incredible. It was created to support patients and families at Primary Children’s Hospital, and that mission has stayed front and center for more than 50 years.
Every tree, wreath, quilt, centerpiece, and gingerbread house is donated by volunteers. People pour their hearts into building something beautiful so it can be auctioned off to help children who need medical care. It’s generosity you can literally see glowing in front of you.
What You’ll See Inside
The second you walk in, you’re wrapped in lights, color, music, and that sweet, enticing cinnamon smell.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Stunning decorated trees in every theme you can imagine
- Wreaths, quilts, and handcrafted holiday pieces
- Rows of gingerbread houses that look like they belong in Christmas movies
- Live entertainment
- Visits with Santa
- A sweet shop stocked with treats
- Family-friendly activities that keep the kids excited instead of asking when it’s time to go home
There’s something to stare at around every corner, and honestly, I love watching kids’ faces as much as I love the decorations.
Why It’s the Perfect Family Outing
The holiday season gets loud and stressful fast. Festival of Trees slows it all down. You walk through together, pointing things out, laughing, taking pictures, sampling treats, and just being present.
No devices. No rushing. No pressure.
Just joy, wonder, and a chance to soak in the season before December turns into a sprint.
Plus, it’s the kind of event that feels good because it does good. You’re not just getting a fun family night. You’re helping support kids and families who are going through the toughest moments of their lives.
Ticket Info
Tickets are on sale now
Prices are simple, affordable, and family friendly:
- Adults
- Children ages 2 to 11
- Seniors
- Family ticket bundle options
And the event is cashless, so bring a card or buy your tickets ahead of time to make the day smoother.
If You Want To Get More Involved
If holiday crafting is your thing, you can actually donate a wreath, quilt, tree, gingerbread house, or other creation. Families, church groups, clubs, and businesses all get involved, so if you’ve ever wanted to build something meaningful for a good cause, this is one of the sweetest ways to do it.
See You Under the Lights
If you need something to kick your holiday spirit into gear, this is it. Festival of Trees is magical, meaningful, and full of the kind of warmth the world needs a little more of right now.
Bring your kids. Bring your spouse. Bring someone who needs a lift this season.
I’ll be there with my crew soaking in every twinkling moment.
the mommy avenger 
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