Festival of Trees 2025: Rochester’s Most Magical Holiday Event Returns Bigger Than Ever
Signs of Christmas are starting to pop up all over Southeast Minnesota! Toys for Tots bins are out and ready to be filled with toys for kids in our area. Bell ringing has begun as well for The Salvation Army. If you haven't stepped inside the Tap House in Downtown Rochester...you MUST put this on your list of things to see this year. Christmas exploded inside! (and that might be an understatement)
The crew at Y-105FM has also been busy getting the season of Christmas music ready as well...and part of that planning involves a lot of chats with the North Pole. Rumor is, Santa will be coming downtown for a few days at one of the biggest Christmas events in Southeast Minnesota - Festival of Trees. Below is everything you need to know about this fun, family-friendly event in Rochester.
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Everything You Need To Know About the Festival of Trees in Rochester, Minnesota
One of the most magical places this holiday season is a space in downtown Rochester that is full of Christmas spirit called Festival of Trees. Over 80 Christmas trees are decorated in unimaginable ways; arts and crafts are available for all to enjoy; games, shopping spots, and Santa makes an appearance, too. Check out the full schedule of events below.
Join us for a beloved Rochester tradition as we mark 40 magical years of community, celebration, and impact. The Festival of Trees lights up the season with stunning holiday displays, family fun, and festive events, all to support the mission of Hiawatha Homes.
Festival of Trees Schedule for 2025
- Opening Night Gala: November 25th, 2025 - Learn more and grab tickets here.
- General Admission: November 28th to November 30th, 2025
Schedule of Events November 28th through November 30th, 2025
FRIDAY, November 28th:
- Public viewing of over 90 beautifully decorated trees on Friday, November 28th from 10 am until 7 pm
SATURDAY, November 29th:
- Public viewing of over 90 beautifully decorated trees on Saturday, November 29th from 10 am until 6 pm
- DiverseAbility Day - 10 am until 2 pm. You'll enjoy crafts, entertainment, hands-on learning stations, sensory activities, and more!
- Festival After Dark - (21+ Event) Enjoy a festive atmosphere featuring beautifully lit displays, cash bar, live music and dancing during this special after-hours event. The band, THE CHUBS, will be entertaining the crowd. Fun contests all night including winners for the Best Dancer, the Best Ugly Sweater, and winner of a Govee 100' Smart Color Changing LED Outdoor String Lights. This is a 21+ event where you can sip and stroll among the trees and enjoy fun activities! 7 pm until 9 pm You will need to be 21+ to enter. This event will feature a cash bar, entertainment, and other activities. Cost: $10. Grab tickets here.
SUNDAY, November 30th:
- Sensory Friendly Hour - 10 am until 11 am. This time will have subdued lights (no flashing lights), no entertainment, and other sensory-friendly features. Santa will be there too!
- Public viewing of over 90 beautifully decorated trees on Sunday, December 1st from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm.
Where Do I Park for Festival of Trees in Rochester, Minnesota?
If you are coming to Festival of Trees in Downtown Rochester, here are a few of the most convenient spots for parking:
- Center Street Parking Ramp (which is free for 2 hours and on weekends)
- Public Parking ramp connected to the Kahler Grand Hotel - this ramp may . (Near QDOBA Mexican Eats).
Where in the Kahler Grand Hotel is Festival of Trees Located?
Festival of Trees is located in Windsor Hall at the Kahler Grand Hotel. To find it, head to the Subway level of the Kahler Grand Hotel.
The easiest way to get to Festival of Trees is by parking in the Center Street ramp, take the elevator to the subway level, and walk towards the Kahler Grand Hotel.
How Much Does It Cost to Attend in Rochester, Minnesota?
The viewing and family-friendly activities at Festival of Trees are a free event. The only paid experiences are the opening night gala and Festival After Dark.
Your attendance will continue to raise awareness about Hiawatha Homes, and provide support to individuals with disabilities in Olmsted County. Learn more at hiawathahomes.org.
Townsquare Media cares about our community! Every year, we help the community in a variety of ways from supporting local fundraisers, to running daily public service messages, to creating digital community campaigns and hosting events attended by thousands.
Do you have a community event coming up or a fundraiser? Let us know! Contact us at jessica.williams@townsquaremedia.com or fill out the form requesting more info at our Townsquare Cares page.
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Gallery Credit: Isabel Sepulveda
