The Baby Fold's Festival of Trees is Central Illinois’ premier holiday celebration, held annually the weekend before Thanksgiving. 100% of proceeds support life-changing programs for children and families, including foster care, adoption support, special education, autism services, early childhood intervention services, and more. 
Visitors step into a holiday wonderland filled with sights, sounds, and flavors of the season. Santa Claus is on-site all weekend, delighting children with personal visits and take-home craft bags. Guests can marvel at Gingerbread Village, home to over 100 charming creations, and explore the Enchanted Forest, which features over 600 beautifully decorated Christmas trees, handcrafted wreaths, gingerbread creations, holiday centerpieces, and exclusive VIP items—all designed and donated by talented community members and available for bidding in the online auction. An onsite coffee and cookie shop and bake shop offer a tempting array of homemade goodies to enjoy while wandering the Festival and taking in the sparkling displays.
A holiday vendor market adds even more excitement, offering unique gifts and handmade treasures from local artisans—perfect for jump-starting holiday shopping.
The celebration kicks off with an adult-only gala and continues through the weekend with family-friendly evening events, including Avanti’s Family Night and a Family Dance Party with live holiday entertainment.
Local businesses, vendors, and community designers make this extraordinary celebration possible, all in support of the children and families served by The Baby Fold.
2026 Schedule:
- Thursday, Nov. 19 - The Festival of Trees is open exclusively for Gala ticketholders from 5:30 PM - 9:30 PM
- Friday, Nov. 20, Hours are 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- Avanti's Family Night 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
- Senior Day 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
- Holiday Vendor Fair 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
- Saturday, Nov. 21, Hours are 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Breakfast with Santa 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM (Exclusive Early Open to Breakfast With Santa Ticketholders Only)
- Holiday Vendor Market 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Location:
The Interstate Center
1106 Interstate Drive
Bloomington, Illinois 61705
