Festival of Trees
Visitors explore the galleries of the historic house to view displays of more than 70 shimmering, lighted fir trees. Each tree is sponsored and decorated by community members and local organizations in distinctive styles and themes. Guests can also cast votes across several categories for their favorite trees.
Dec 5 – Dec 27, 2026 All ages Adults $8; kids under 12 free.
See more Christmas lights near Schenectady
Plan Your Visit
Hours
10am-4:30pm daily.
Location
Tips & Advice
- Bring the kids along, since children under 12 get in free to see the more than 70 lighted trees spread through the galleries.
- Make a note of your favorite trees as you walk the galleries, because visitors vote in several categories for the best-decorated trees.
- Don't plan a visit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, because the festival closes on both of those days even though it's open daily otherwise.
- If your group wants to sponsor a tree, book your installation slot online, since setup only runs from November 30 through December 4.
- Sponsors should pack a sign with the organization's name, mission and tree theme, plus flyers, a tree topper, a tree skirt and plenty of lights.
Special Events & Promotions
- 2026 is the 20th annual Festival of Trees.
Links & Contact
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What will I see at the Festival of Trees?
More than 70 lighted fir trees fill the galleries of the Schenectady County Historical Society's historic house. Community members and organizations sponsor and decorate each tree in any theme they choose.
Can visitors vote for their favorite trees?
Yes. Visitors vote in several categories for their favorite trees, which is why decorators are encouraged to get creative.
Is it a good outing for kids?
Yes. It's open to the public, and kids under 12 get in free.
How can my business or group sponsor a tree?
Register through the festival's sign-up form. Sponsors set up and decorate a lighted tree in the galleries in any theme or style. You book your installation and removal times online in advance. Setup runs November 30 to December 4, and trees come down after January 1.
What should tree sponsors bring?
Bring a sign with your organization's name, its mission and the name or theme of your tree. Also bring any flyers, brochures or postcards, plus a tree topper and tree skirt. Every tree must have lights.
Browse Christmas in Schenectady
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. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.