Riverside, CA – The Yuletide spirit has officially arrived. The 36th annual Festival of Trees and Holiday Fair commenced today, November 29, 2025. This beloved event transforms the Riverside Convention Center. It offers a magical start to the holiday season. Furthermore, it supports vital community health programs. The festival runs from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. It is free for all to attend.
A Festive Forest of Philanthropy
The Convention Center is now a dazzling Christmas forest. It showcases 60 uniquely themed “designer trees.” These trees are adorned with incredible detail. Visitors can view and photograph them. Volunteers spent many hours decorating each tree. This tradition began in 1989. It has become a cornerstone of the Riverside holiday calendar. The event aims to create a sense of wonder. It also serves as a reminder of strength and resilience. This year’s festival continues that legacy. It offers a festive escape for the community.
Supporting Crucial Health Services
The Festival of Trees is more than just holiday cheer. It is a significant fundraising effort. Proceeds benefit the Riverside University Health System Foundation. Specifically, funds support critical pediatric and neonatal intensive care programs. These include the NICU and PICU. The foundation also aids the Child Abuse and Neglect Unit. Pediatric Behavioral Health services also receive support. Furthermore, new initiatives in pediatric trauma services are funded. The RUHS Foundation works tirelessly. They ensure needy residents of Riverside County receive care. Donations fund vital equipment and programs. This support directly impacts local families.
A Hub for Local Artisans and Activities
In addition to the trees, the Holiday Fair is bustling. Over three dozen local vendors are present. They offer unique handmade gifts. Shoppers can find holiday decor and artisan products. Delicious holiday treats are also available. The fair provides a wonderful shopping opportunity. It supports local small businesses. Families can enjoy various activities. These include Santa’s workshop and a festive photo booth. Organizers designed these attractions for all ages. The fair truly kicks off the season with joy. Jill Eaton, Foundation Director, called it a “wonderful way to kick off the season.” She anticipates visitors experiencing “the magic of the day.”
Downtown Lights Up the Season
This Festival of Trees coincides with another major holiday event. It aligns with the first week of the 33rd annual Festival of Lights downtown. This downtown celebration bathes the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa in millions of lights. The Festival of Lights offers extensive activities. These include food vendors and live music. Many other holiday activities fill the Southern California region. Cities like Los Angeles also host numerous festive events. These range from parades to light displays and special markets. Riverside’s dual celebrations offer a rich holiday experience. They draw visitors from near and far.
A Tradition of Resilience
The Festival of Trees has a rich history. It has adapted through the years. It reverted to in-person events in 2022. Previously, it was virtual in 2020. It also moved outdoors in 2021. This resilience mirrors the spirit it celebrates. Yasith Weerasuriya, CEO of Stanbridge University, a leading sponsor, noted this. He stated the festival is a “powerful reminder.” It highlights “strength and resilience” behind each decorated tree. The foundation expresses deep gratitude for partnerships. These support compassionate care. They extend hope to patients and families.
The Festival of Trees and Holiday Fair offer a multifaceted experience. It blends community spirit with essential fundraising. It provides a magical atmosphere. It also supports the health and well-being of children. The event invites everyone to share in the season’s joy. They can also contribute to a worthy cause.
