Schenectady Historical celebrates the season with Festival of Trees and more!

Schenectady, NY (December 3, 2025) - Throughout December, Schenectady County Historical Society (SCHS) will welcome guests to its historic sites for a suite of holiday-inspired programs.

The biggest event happening at SCHS is the annual Festival of Trees fundraiser. Over 70 sponsors from local businesses and non-profit organizations have come together to decorate trees in a sparkling blend of wit and whimsy. Since 2007, the Festival of Trees has offered the community an opportunity to be creative with tree decorations. This year's Festival includes SCHS' signature upside down chandelier trees, eco-art trees, and dozens of firs adorned with vintage, handmade, and carefully crafted ornaments, toys, animals, and more. 


"As the snow blows in for the season, our lights turn on! We’re so excited to welcome the community into SCHS and show off the creativity of our participants. Once again, our galleries have become a winter wonderland!" said SCHS Executive Director, Mary Zawacki Graves. "2025 is our 19th year hosting this beloved event, and it gets more magical every time."

SCHS invites the community to take part by strolling the magnificently lit galleries and enjoy a bit of hometown cheer. Guests can also vote in several categories for their favorite trees, include Cutest, Most Creative, and Most Glamorous.

When and Where?

The Festival of Trees runs daily from December 6 to December 27, 10am-4:30pm (closed 12/24, 12/25, and 12/26). Guests should buy tickets at SCHS, 32 Washington Ave. Admission is $8, free for children under 12.  More information about the Festival of Trees is available at www.schenectadyhistorical.org. 

What's the Festival of Trees all about?

The Festival of Trees a fundraiser for the Schenectady County Historical Society. Proceeds of the festival benefit the numerous programs and services provided by the non-profit organization. 

About SCHS

The Schenectady County Historical Society is a private, not-for-profit organization with the mission to share stories, inspire dialogue, and encourage understanding of the history, people, and cultures of our region. SCHS brings to life the area's dynamic history through interactive exhibits, talks, concerts, education programs and community events for all audiences at the Mabee Farm Historic Site, the Grems-Doolittle Library, the Schenectady History Museum, and Brouwer House Creative.

Holiday Happenings All Month

In addition to the Festival of Trees, SCHS is hosting a number of seasonal programs in December that share cultural traditions. Guests can join SCHS at a Holiday Chocolate Haus, enjoy cookies and more at A Very Mabee Christmas, and explore glittering lights on a Holiday Stockade Stroll. The full details are at www.schenectadyhistorical.org.