Fargo families are getting an early taste of the holiday season as the Fargodome opens its doors for the 26th annual Festival of Trees. Running through Dec. 4, the event fills the arena’s lobby with dozens of beautifully decorated Christmas trees contributed by local businesses, community organizations, and families eager to share the spirit of giving.

Community participation and friendly competition

Each tree is uniquely adorned, turning the lobby into a festive showcase. Participants often engage in light‑hearted competition to see whose tree is the most eye‑catching, fostering a sense of camaraderie among neighbors. The event’s organizers, Fraser, note that the tradition has helped more than 3,600 families receive a tree over the past 25 years, many of whom might otherwise go without one.

Giving back beyond the trees

When the festival concludes, the trees are taken home by the families that helped decorate them, complete with any toys or candy left on the branches. In addition to the tree giveaway, the Festival of Trees supports programs that assist children, teens, and adults in living more independently, reinforcing the community’s commitment to helping those in need.

Visitors can also contribute to a separate charitable effort by dropping off hygiene items at the “Art of Humanity” tree located in the lobby. The collected supplies will be distributed to local families facing hardship, adding another layer of generosity to the holiday celebration.

Santa’s visit and family photo opportunities

Santa and Mrs. Claus will make a special appearance on Friday, Nov. 27, offering photo opportunities for families until 4 p.m. The classic holiday photo session provides a memorable moment for children and a chance for families to capture the season’s joy.

Why the Festival matters

Beyond the festive décor, the Festival of Trees exemplifies the values that strengthen Fargo’s neighborhoods: faith in community, support for traditional families, and the liberty to give freely. By bringing together local businesses, churches, and civic groups, the event underscores how a shared purpose can brighten the holidays for many while reinforcing the bonds that make Fargo a strong, caring city.

Whether you’re admiring the sparkling trees, donating hygiene supplies, or snapping a picture with Santa, the Festival of Trees offers a wholesome, family‑focused way to celebrate the season and extend a helping hand to neighbors in need.

Original reporting: InForum (Fargo section) — read the source article.