The Festival of Trees has become a holiday tradition for Treasure Valley families, bringing the community together each year in a spectacular display of festive decor, music, and entertainment. Celebrating its 40th anniversary, this event features an incredible variety of holiday trees, live performances, visits with Santa, and kid-friendly activities like a scavenger hunts and LEGO displays. Hosted by the Saint Alphonsus Foundation, the festival also has a meaningful mission, with proceeds benefiting the Saint Alphonsus Cancer Institute. Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning fan, the Festival of Trees offers something magical for everyone and is the perfect way to begin the holiday season.
Let’s get all your questions answered so that you can fully enjoy your family’s visit to the Festival of Trees this year!
What is the Festival of Trees? What’s the history of this event?
The Festival of Trees, celebrating its 40th Anniversary, is a magical event ingrained in the fabric of the Treasure Valley’s holiday season. Each year, the event connects families, community organizations, schools, and local leaders ahead of the holiday season for the perfect season-starting event that includes a Gala, Fashion Show, and special days like Senior and Family Day.
Over the years, it has grown from being a small event, with the earliest years being held in warehouses around the Treasure Valley, to an event that sees thousands of attendees and volunteers each year at the Boise Centre in Downtown Boise.
At the event, attendees can expect a full holiday experience including nearly 100 trees, more than 300 wreaths, and other holiday decorations. Families will enjoy the North Pole Village with Santa visits, a children’s scavenger hunt, art contest, gift shop, live performances of music and dancing, LEGO building and more!
What does it support?
The Saint Alphonsus Cancer Institute is proud to be the leading cancer program in Idaho and Eastern Oregon, and for the second year in a row, the Cancer Institute will receive all net proceeds from the Festival of Trees. The committed team of oncologists and surgeons promote preventative care, early detection screening and life saving cancer treatment. Saint Alphonsus provides the highest quality of care for all types of cancer, treating it at the earliest stage, and this ensures the continued mission in the fight against cancer.
Who is invited to attend?
The Festival of Trees is for anyone who is feeling in the holiday spirit. It’s for families who want to spend wholesome time together. From the gamified scavenger hunt to a visit with Santa, there is no shortage of holiday fun for families. Children of all ages will enjoy the creatively decorated trees, the performances, and even a few enchanted characters. It’s also for people who want to be inspired by creative design and holiday decor. This year,Sterling Landscape is designing the lobby with a never-before-seen theme. You won’t want to miss it!
What’s the schedule of events?
Tuesday, November 26 – Gala | SOLD OUT
Wednesday, November 27 – Senior Day (Seniors admitted for $5.00)
Festival Hours of Admission: 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
• Visits with Santa: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Santa will be available to greet children throughout public admission hours, except for brief scheduled breaks. Courtesy photos available; donations appreciated.
• Interactive LEGO Display: 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Presented by IdahoLUG.
Thursday, November 28 – Thanksgiving
Festival Hours of Admission: 2:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
• Visits with Santa: 2:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Santa will be available to greet children throughout public admission hours, except for brief scheduled breaks. Courtesy photos available; donations appreciated.
• Interactive LEGO Display: 2:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Presented by IdahoLUG.
Friday, November 29
Festival Hours of Admission: 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
• Visits with Santa: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Santa will be available to greet children throughout public admission hours, except for brief scheduled breaks. Courtesy photos available; donations appreciated.
• Interactive LEGO Display: 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Presented by IdahoLUG.
Saturday, November 30 – Family Day
Festival Hours of Admission: 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
• Visits with Santa: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Santa will be available to greet children throughout public admission hours, except for brief scheduled breaks. Courtesy photos available; donations appreciated.
• Interactive LEGO Display: 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Presented by IdahoLUG.
• Smitten Face Painting & Smiles: 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Offering holiday designs with face paint and glitter.
Sunday, December 1
Festival Hours of Admission: 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
• Visits with Santa: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Santa will be available to greet children throughout public admission hours, with the exception of brief scheduled breaks. Courtesy photos available; donations appreciated.
• Interactive LEGO Display: 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Presented by IdahoLUG.
Monday, December 2 – Fashion Show
• Festival Fashion Show and Luncheon: Doors open and no-host cocktails begin at 11:00 a.m. The Fashion Show and Luncheon begin at 12:00 p.m. The event requires reservations and ticketing in advance. For more information, visit the Gala and Fashion Show page.
Are there any food or drinks available?
Food and drinks will be available for purchase, including holiday favorites like hot chocolate and other seasonal drinks.
Can you bring strollers?
The ample space at the Boise Centre East allows for strollers inside the event. Elevators are also accessible and will take you straight up to North Pole Village and more.
The Festival of Trees truly embodies the holiday spirit, blending joy, creativity, and community support in a way that keeps families coming back year after year. From the beautifully decorated trees to the impressive performances, every moment at this event is designed to bring holiday cheer and create lasting memories. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the celebration! Grab your tickets today!
2024 Festival of Trees Details:
Website: https://www.saintalphonsus.org/foundation/events/festival-of-trees
Dates: November 26 – Dec 2, 2024
Location: Boise Centre – Boise Centre – 850 W Front St, Boise, Idaho 83702
Admission: Adults – $10.00, Seniors (62 and better) – $6.00, Military – $6.00, Children (ages 3-12) – $6.00, Children (2 and under) – Free