Gala of Trees 2025: Why This Salem Tradition Is a Local Favorite

Gala of Trees is one of the most meaningful and magical holiday events in the Salem and Keizer area. This annual community gala supports Family Building Blocks, a nonprofit dedicated to “Keeping Children Safe and Families Together” across Marion and Polk counties. For over three decades, the event has blended holiday creativity, community generosity, and a mission that directly impacts local families.

For another beloved local tradition, see Keizer’s Holiday Tree Lighting 2025.

Here’s everything residents need to know about Gala of Trees 2025.

What Is Gala of Trees?

Gala of Trees began in 1990 and has raised more than $3 million to support Family Building Blocks’ no-cost, voluntary services. These programs help stabilize families experiencing financial strain, stress, or overwhelming circumstances.

The event has grown into the Willamette Valley’s premier holiday auction, featuring:

• Fully decorated live Christmas trees

• Travel packages and luxury experiences

• Locally curated gifts and community donations

• A mission-driven evening that brings hundreds together at the Salem Convention Center

Each ticket, bid, and donation directly supports children and families in Marion and Polk counties.

The Role of Volunteer Decorators

One of the most unique parts of Gala of Trees is the work of its Volunteer Decorators. These teams:

• Choose a theme

• Gather donated items and experiences

• Build a tree that tells a story

• Create an immersive holiday display for the live auction

Walking through the trees feels like stepping into dozens of themed holiday worlds. Every tree carries a message, a mood, and a purpose.

Hannah Fouts-Sparks has decorated a tree for seven consecutive years and currently serves as the event’s Head Chair, a role she has held for the past five years.

Featured Live Auction Trees for 2025

Here’s a preview of some of the standout live auction trees featured this year:

🎄 Heirloom Holiday Tree

A timeless holiday theme paired with Noira gifts, tastings, vintage ornaments, and keepsake décor.

🎄 Holy Guacamole, It’s Navidad!

A Puerto Vallarta getaway with festive home additions like a porch setup, BBQ class, custom boots, and themed surprises.

🎄 Take Flight!

A travel-themed experience with Alaska Airlines tickets, wine-tasting tours, luggage, and cozy accents.

🎄 Magnolia & Mistletoe

A Savannah-inspired Christmas tree with a Southern getaway and elegant home pieces.

🎄 Elysian Noel

A European cruise for two with a major airfare voucher.

🎄 Polar Playground

A winter wonderland experience paired with a luxury dinner for eight and arctic-themed décor.

🎄 Whistler White Christmas

A fully flocked tree with a Whistler ski getaway and premium winter gifts.

🎄 All Things Glam

A sparkle, beauty, and self-care package including wellness services and a hotel stay.

🎄 Star Wars: Darth Side of Christmas

A themed tree featuring Disney/Star Wars experiences, collectibles, and custom outdoor décor.

🎄 Oregon Odyssey

A celebration of Oregon adventures, from coast escapes to mountain getaways.

🎄 Tartan Tidings

A Scotland-inspired theme with authentic gifts and luxury spirits.

🎄 Reindeer Games

A sports-and-spirits package with premium tickets, beverages, and festive extras.

Silent Auction Tabletop Trees

In addition to the live auction, the event includes 4-foot tabletop trees paired with themed gift bundles. These go home with winning bidders the same night and offer a fun, accessible way to participate.

Event Details for 2025

📅 Date: Friday, December 5, 2025
📍 Location: Salem Convention Center
🎟 Tickets: https://familybuildingblocks.ejoinme.org/galaoftrees2025

This event regularly sells out and is one of Salem’s most beloved holiday gatherings.

How to Get Involved for Future Years

Volunteer Decorators are the heart of Gala of Trees. Planning for each year starts early, and new decorators, businesses, and creative partners are always welcome.

Anyone interested in decorating a tree for a future Gala of Trees can connect with the event team through Family Building Blocks or reach out to a current Decorator to begin planning.

About Hannah

Hannah Fouts-Sparks is a Keizer and Salem real estate professional with Sparks Property Group at SMI Real Estate. She is an active supporter of Family Building Blocks and has served as a Volunteer Decorator and Head Chair for Gala of Trees. Hannah helps families throughout the mid-Willamette Valley with real estate guidance, local insight, and community connections.