Illustration of a light display scene (Festival of Trees)
Christmas Lights

Festival of Trees

Experience the festive spirit at the Festival of Trees, where beautifully decorated trees sponsored by local businesses and organizations fill the McHenry Recreation Center. Visitors can cast their vote for their favorite tree by donating canned goods or toiletries, with all contributions benefiting Veteran's Path to Hope. It's a heartwarming way to celebrate the season and support a great cause.

What to Expect

Community-decorated trees supporting a local charity

Event Details

Duration

17 hours per day

Ages

All ages

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

McHenry Area Chamber of Commerce

Food & Drink

Donations of non-perishable food or toiletries accepted

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families, community support

Vibe

Festive, charitable, community-oriented

Energy Level

Low

Budget

$

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

None

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: $
  • Pets: No pets allowed

Tips & Advice

  • Bring a few non-perishable food items or toiletries to donate; this is how you vote for your favorite tree!
  • Visit during the evening hours (until 10:00 PM) to see the trees illuminated in their full festive glory.
  • Consider visiting with family or friends to share the holiday cheer and discuss which tree is the most creative.
  • Check the McHenry Area Chamber of Commerce website for any special announcements or related holiday events happening in the area.
  • The event supports Veteran's Path to Hope, so your donations directly contribute to a meaningful cause.

Special Events & Promotions

  • All donations benefit Veteran's Path to Hope.
  • The tree with the most donations wins bragging rights and free entry for next year's event.

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Festival of Trees?

The Festival of Trees is an event where local businesses and organizations decorate Christmas trees with unique themes. Visitors can donate food or toiletries to vote for their favorite tree, with all donations going to Veteran's Path to Hope.

When and where is the Festival of Trees held?

The event takes place at the McHenry Recreation Center, located at 3636 Municipal Drive, McHenry, IL 60050, from November 20 to December 27, daily from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

How do I vote for my favorite tree?

You vote for your favorite tree by bringing canned non-perishable food or toiletries to donate. The tree with the most donations wins bragging rights and free entry for next year's event.

Who benefits from the donations?

All donations collected during the Festival of Trees are given to Veteran's Path to Hope.

Is there an admission fee?

There is no direct admission fee, but visitors are encouraged to bring canned non-perishable food or toiletries to donate as their vote for their favorite tree.

Tags

holiday light displayscommunity celebrationcharity eventfamily friendlyfestive decorationsholiday seasonseasonal activitiesholiday tradition

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Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Sep 20, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team