Get ready for a magical holiday tradition at the Festival of Trees in Leominster, Massachusetts! Each year, this enchanting event transforms the city into a winter wonderland, delighting visitors of all ages with its dazzling displays and festive atmosphere. As you step into the heart of Leominster, you’ll be greeted by rows of beautifully decorated Christmas trees, each one telling a unique story and showcasing the creativity of local businesses, organizations, and individuals. From traditional to whimsical, these stunning trees capture the spirit of the season and ignite the imagination.
But the Festival of Trees is more than just a visual spectacle. It’s a celebration of community, bringing together friends, family, and neighbors in a joyful gathering that warms the heart and lifts the spirit. As you wander through the festival, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in a variety of holiday-themed activities, from crafting ornaments to enjoying live musical performances. The air will be filled with the scent of hot cocoa and freshly baked treats, inviting you to indulge in the flavors of the season.
History and Purpose
The Festival of Trees in Leominster, Massachusetts, is a beloved annual tradition that captures the magic and generosity of the holiday season. This enchanting event began in 1994 as a way to bring the community together while raising funds for local charities. Over the years, it has grown into a cherished celebration that showcases the creativity and giving spirit of the people of Leominster and beyond.
Organized by the Leominster Historical Society, the Festival of Trees transforms the historic Merriam Graves mansion into a winter wonderland filled with beautifully decorated Christmas trees, each sponsored by local businesses, organizations, and individuals. Visitors can stroll through the rooms, admiring the unique themes and intricate ornaments adorning each tree.
But the Festival of Trees is more than just a visual spectacle; it’s a way to give back to the community. All proceeds from the event benefit local charitable causes, such as the Leominster Emergency Fund, which provides assistance to families in need, and the Leominster Public Library’s children’s programs. By attending the festival, visitors not only enjoy a festive experience but also contribute to making a positive impact in the lives of others.
With its combination of holiday cheer, community spirit, and charitable giving, the Festival of Trees has become a cherished tradition that brings joy and warmth to the hearts of all who participate. It’s a shining example of how a small town can come together to create something truly special and meaningful during the most wonderful time of the year.
Stunning Tree Displays
Most Popular Tree Themes
Over the years, the Festival of Trees in Leominster, MA has showcased an array of dazzling and imaginative tree decorating themes that never fail to impress visitors. From traditional holiday motifs to whimsical and creative designs, there’s something to delight everyone. One of the most popular themes is the “Winter Wonderland,” featuring trees adorned with glistening icicles, sparkling snowflakes, and frosty white ornaments that transport you to a magical, snowy landscape. Another crowd-pleaser is the “Candy Land” theme, with trees decked out in vibrant colors, swirling lollipops, and delectable-looking candy ornaments that make your mouth water. For those who prefer a more nostalgic vibe, the “Vintage Christmas” theme showcases trees with charming old-fashioned decorations, such as antique tinsel, retro glass bulbs, and classic wooden ornaments that evoke warm memories of Christmases past. These beloved themes, along with countless others, are a testament to the creativity and holiday spirit that make the Festival of Trees a cherished tradition in Leominster.
Unique Materials and Decorations
The Festival of Trees in Leominster, MA showcases an impressive array of creatively decorated Christmas trees that are sure to inspire and delight visitors. Many of the trees feature unique materials and ornaments that you won’t find on a typical tree. From handcrafted wooden ornaments to glittering glass baubles, each tree tells a story through its decorations. Some displays incorporate unexpected elements like musical instruments, sports equipment, or even food items as ornaments, reflecting the diverse themes dreamed up by local businesses, organizations, and individuals. The innovative use of lights, ribbons, and garlands adds an extra layer of magic to these one-of-a-kind creations. As you wander through the festival, keep an eye out for trees adorned with vintage toys, locally-made artwork, and natural materials like pinecones and berries. The level of creativity and attention to detail in each tree is truly remarkable, making the Festival of Trees a must-see event for anyone who appreciates the art of holiday decorating.
Family-Friendly Activities
Photos with Santa
Children can capture magical memories with Santa Claus at the Festival of Trees! Stop by Santa’s enchanting village, nestled in the heart of the festival, to meet jolly old St. Nick himself. Professional photographers will be on hand to snap the perfect picture of your little ones sitting on Santa’s lap, sharing their Christmas wishes. Santa will be available for photos on Saturday and Sunday from 12pm to 4pm. Be sure to arrive early, as the line for Santa can get quite long! This unforgettable experience is included with your festival admission. Don’t miss your chance to take home a treasured keepsake from this delightful holiday tradition.
Holiday Crafts and Games
The Festival of Trees in Leominster, MA is a delightful event for the whole family, with plenty of engaging activities to keep little ones entertained. Kids can unleash their creativity at the festive craft stations, making colorful ornaments and holiday decorations to take home. They’ll love decorating gingerbread cookies and making their own sweet treats at the cookie decorating booth. The festival also features fun games like the Reindeer Ring Toss and Snowman Bowling, where kids can win exciting prizes. For a magical experience, stop by Santa’s Workshop to create a special keepsake craft with the help of Santa’s elves. Don’t miss the interactive Holiday Storytime sessions, where kids can cozy up and listen to enchanting tales of the season. With so many hands-on activities and games, the Festival of Trees is sure to fill your family with holiday cheer and create lasting memories.
Visitor Information
The Festival of Trees in Leominster, MA is a beloved holiday tradition that you won’t want to miss! This year’s event takes place from November 25th to December 4th at City Hall. Come marvel at the dazzling display of beautifully decorated Christmas trees, each one unique and full of festive cheer.
The festival is open daily from 9am to 5pm, with extended hours until 8pm on Fridays. Admission is just $5 for adults and $3 for children ages 3-12, with kids under 3 getting in for free. Seniors aged 65+ can enjoy a discounted ticket price of $4.
Parking is available in the municipal lot behind City Hall, as well as on nearby streets. We recommend arriving early on weekends to secure a spot, as this popular event does draw crowds.
As you stroll through the enchanting forest of trees, you’ll also discover a charming gift boutique filled with handmade treasures perfect for holiday shopping. Santa himself will be making special appearances throughout the festival, so have your camera ready!
Top tips: Bring cash for admission and shopping, dress warmly as the festival takes place indoors and outdoors, and don’t miss the Grand Raffle drawing on closing night for a chance to win amazing prizes. Get ready to create magical holiday memories at Leominster’s Festival of Trees!
For more ideas on staying warm during your outdoor adventures, check out our guide on dressing up for the cold weather.
Conclusion
The Festival of Trees in Leominster is a cherished holiday tradition that captures the magic and joy of the season. This enchanting event brings the community together to celebrate creativity, generosity, and the spirit of giving. With its dazzling displays of beautifully decorated trees, festive entertainment, and heartwarming atmosphere, it’s no wonder why families look forward to this annual celebration year after year.
Whether you’re a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, the Festival of Trees is an experience you won’t want to miss. So mark your calendars, gather your loved ones, and immerse yourself in the wonder of this beloved Leominster tradition. Create lasting memories as you explore the glittering forest of trees and embrace the warmth and cheer of the holiday season.