Enjoy the Magic of Saint Albans’ Festival of Trees 2025
Note: Advertising is how we keep this site free for you to enjoy, and we earn a commission from affiliate links that may be included in this post. Thank you for supporting Vermont Explored!
November 29 to December 7, 2025
Imagine a week where every corner of Saint Albans sparkles with holiday cheer.
Welcome to the Festival of Trees, a week-long celebration packed with holiday events that bring the community together for a season of joy, giving, and winter magic.
Whether you’re a local or visiting from afar, you’ll find plenty of reasons to bundle up and head to downtown Saint Albans for this magical week of events.
Hallmark in the Park & Tree Lighting: November 29
It all begins with the Hallmark in the Park & Tree Lighting on Saturday, November 29, from 4:30 to 7:30 pm in Taylor Park. Enjoy twinkling lights, a toasty bonfire, the scent of kettle corn in the air, and the sound of carols drifting through the night as the community gathers to illuminate the park for the season.
Warm up by the bonfire, sip free hot chocolate, and enjoy performances from Studio 3 Dancers and Elite Gems Cheer.
Kids will love the lighted tunnel, human-sized snow globes, letters-to-Santa booth, and reindeer food station. And of course, Santa himself will be there to greet families and spread a little North Pole magic.
Don’t forget to grab a bite from local favorites like Nelly’s Cocktail Truck, Mimi’s Mini Doughnies, and Green Mountain Kettle Corn, and more. It’s the kind of night that feels straight out of a Hallmark movie.
Winter Games: December 1
Keep the fun going with the Winter Games on Monday, December 1, from 4:30 to 6 pm in Taylor Park. The local Girl Scout and Boy Scout troops will be leading family-friendly activities, including s’mores making, cup stacking, and even a “fake snowball fight” (unless we get lucky and it snows for real).
Holiday Paint Night: December 1
If you prefer something a little cozier, head to the Holiday Paint Night at City Hall’s Council Chamber at 5:30 pm for an evening of creativity and community.
Free Holiday Movie: December 2
On Tuesday, December 2, grab some popcorn and settle in at the Welden Theatre for a free holiday movie at 7 pm. It’s a great way to slow down and soak up some classic holiday nostalgia with your family and friends.
PJ Story Time: December 3
For the little ones, the PJ Story Time at the St. Albans Free Library on Wednesday, December 3, at 6 pm is pure magic. Kids can wear their coziest pajamas and enjoy stories, songs, snacks, and a craft. Keep your eyes open; you might even spot a man in a red suit!
Running of the Bells: December 4
Ready to add a little jingle to your stride? The 15th Annual Running of the Bells returns on Thursday, December 4.
The festivities, including a costume contest, begin at 5 pm, and the one-mile fun run starts at 6:30 pm. It’s one of Saint Albans’ most beloved holiday traditions, brought to you by O’Rourke Media and the Saint Albans Messenger.
Gala En Blanc: December 5
Friday night brings one of the Festival’s most elegant events, the Gala En Blanc from 6 to 11 pm at City Hall Auditorium. Dress in your winter whites for a night of cocktails, casino games for charity, and dancing. Tickets are $40 per person or $70 per pair and include appetizers and $200 in casino chips (extra chips available for purchase).
All proceeds benefit four incredible local charities:
- Franklin County Senior Center
- Northwest Family Foods
- Laurie’s House
- Josh Pallotta Fund (Josh’s House)
Come for the fun, stay for the cause, and leave with memories that warm your heart all season long.
Santa’s Workshop: December 6
Earlier that same day, from 11 am to 2 pm, the Saint Albans Museum will host Santa’s Workshop, featuring crafts, cookies, and a special visit from Santa himself. It’s a wonderful family event and a great way to spend a cozy morning downtown.
Dance Showcase: December 6
The festival wraps up on Sunday, December 6, with a Dance Showcase at City Hall Auditorium from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. featuring performances by three local dance troupes: Up North Studio, Electric Youth, and Studio 3. Scouts will be on hand selling candy, hot chocolate, and coffee to keep everyone fueled up for the show.
Claus for a Cause: December 7
Hosted by Dave’s Ice Cream Social, this lively event will feature a visit from Santa, hot cocoa, and the sweet sounds of the Champlain Community Choir at City Hall from 1 to 4 pm.
A Week of Holiday Magic in the Heart of Saint Albans
From tree lighting to dancing, cookies to casino games, the Festival of Trees is more than just a collection of events; it’s a celebration of community spirit.
Every corner of downtown Saint Albans glows with festive lights and neighborly warmth, reminding us what makes small-town Vermont so special during the holidays.
Bring your friends, your family, or just your holiday spirit, and make some memories that will last well beyond the season.
Also Read: Celebrate Christmas in Vermont in 2025
Follow us on social media for more Vermont inspiration!
