Florida’s Festival of Trees at Anastasia Catholic Church Supports Homeless Services, Boosts Local Tourism with Holiday Cheer and Charity

Published on November 20, 2025

The Festival of Trees at Anastasia Catholic Church in St. Augustine, Florida, is more than just a seasonal celebration – it is a fusion of holiday cheer, community support, and a unique opportunity to boost local tourism. Held from November 21 through November 23, the festival is now in its fifth year, bringing together a combination of charitable giving and tourism-driven festivities. This event not only raises crucial funds for the St. Augustine Society, which provides shelter and support to the homeless, but it also serves as a significant catalyst for local economic growth, drawing visitors from across the region and beyond.

A Seasonal Celebration with a Purpose

The Festival of Trees is a captivating event that features an array of beautifully decorated Christmas trees and wreaths available for bidding. The funds raised through these auctions directly support the vital programs offered by the St. Augustine Society, which includes the St. Francis House, Port in the Storm Homeless Youth Center, and SOS Street Outreach Services. These programs provide shelter, support, and life-changing services for homeless adults, children, and families in the region.

The festival is hosted at the St. Jude Celebration Hall at Anastasia Catholic Church, an iconic location that enhances the appeal of the event. The Celebration Hall becomes a festive hub during the three-day event, with a wide range of activities designed to engage visitors of all ages. These activities are tailored to create a memorable holiday experience, while also promoting a culture of giving back to the community.

A Major Event for Florida Tourism

The Festival of Trees has emerged as a key event on Florida’s holiday tourism calendar. St. Augustine, already a popular tourist destination known for its rich history and stunning architecture, has leveraged this event to increase both local visitation and regional tourism. Every year, thousands of visitors flock to the city, attracted not only by the beauty of the festival but also by the allure of participating in a charitable cause.

For tourists visiting Florida, especially those seeking a more intimate, community-focused experience during the holiday season, the Festival of Trees provides a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture. The combination of art, charity, and family-friendly activities has made it a standout event in Florida’s winter tourism scene. Moreover, visitors are likely to extend their stays in the area, boosting spending in local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and retail shops. This influx of tourists adds to the economic impact that the event has on St. Augustine, creating a significant ripple effect throughout the local economy.

The event has become a holiday staple for both locals and tourists. For visitors coming to Florida from out of state, the festival presents an opportunity to enjoy the warm hospitality and festive atmosphere that the region is known for, all while supporting a good cause. This blend of tourism and charity has helped establish the festival as an essential part of Florida’s holiday traditions.

The Role of the St. Augustine Society

The St. Augustine Society, the nonprofit organization that hosts the event, plays a critical role in addressing homelessness and providing services to vulnerable populations in the region. The Society operates several shelters, including St. Francis House, which offers short-term accommodation for individuals and families in need. Another key initiative, Port in the Storm, focuses on homeless youth, providing them with not only shelter but also vital skills such as financial literacy and job readiness.

By supporting these services, the Festival of Trees directly contributes to improving the lives of hundreds of individuals and families each year. The funds raised at the event allow the St. Augustine Society to continue offering vital programs, helping people regain stability and independence. Through these services, the organization has already made a significant impact, providing shelter and support to 385 adults, 28 families, and 91 unaccompanied youth in 2025 alone. Additionally, 153 individuals have successfully moved into permanent housing, representing a 56% increase in successful transitions compared to the previous year.

Through the festival, the St. Augustine Society also shines a light on the ongoing challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness. By engaging the community in this important cause, the festival creates a broader awareness of the need for continued support for homeless individuals and families. This is a key aspect of the festival’s success – not only is it a fundraiser, but it also helps foster a spirit of community engagement and social responsibility.

A Jam-Packed Schedule of Events

One of the standout features of the Festival of Trees is its diverse schedule of events. Each day brings something unique, offering visitors a variety of ways to engage with the festival and contribute to the cause.

• Friday, November 21 kicks off the festival with the Night Market, a bustling event from 5 to 9 p.m. that features a mix of local artisans, food vendors, and live entertainment. This market is a great way for visitors to get into the holiday spirit while supporting local businesses and enjoying festive treats.
• On Saturday, November 22, families can enjoy Breakfast with Santa Claus and a heartwarming story time with Mrs. Claus from 8:30 to 11 a.m. This event provides children and families with the opportunity to create lasting memories while supporting the St. Augustine Society.
• The evening of Saturday, November 22 will see the return of the popular Jingle Ball, a festive gala from 6 to 10 p.m. This event includes live music by the Bay Kings, holiday cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and a silent auction. It’s the perfect opportunity for adults to enjoy an evening of fun, all while bidding on trees and wreaths to raise funds for the cause.
• The festival concludes on Sunday, November 23, with a final stroll to bid on trees and wreaths, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visitors can take one last opportunity to make their bids and support the festival’s charitable efforts before the event comes to a close.

Each of these events contributes to the festive atmosphere of the Festival of Trees, while also helping to raise awareness and funds for the vital services offered by the St. Augustine Society. The festival’s diverse offerings make it an attractive destination for both tourists and locals alike, enhancing Florida’s reputation as a hub for holiday tourism and charity-driven events.

The Broader Impact on Local Businesses and Community

The Festival of Trees has become a vital part of St. Augustine’s winter tourism scene, drawing attention not only to the city’s historical landmarks but also to its commitment to community-focused events. This celebration has proven to be a boon for local businesses, providing a significant economic lift to the area. Visitors to the festival often spend time exploring other attractions in the region, from historic sites to charming shops, further boosting the local economy.

The success of the festival also underscores the growing importance of community-based tourism events that merge cultural experiences with charitable endeavors. As travelers increasingly seek out meaningful travel experiences that allow them to give back, events like the Festival of Trees offer an ideal blend of holiday spirit and philanthropy. By supporting causes like the St. Augustine Society, tourists can make a tangible impact on the lives of local individuals while enjoying the beauty and charm of Florida.

Conclusion: A Holiday Tradition with Lasting Impact

The Festival of Trees at Anastasia Catholic Church is more than just a holiday event – it is a celebration of community, philanthropy, and the holiday season. As Florida’s tourism industry continues to evolve, events like the Festival of Trees provide a unique opportunity to attract visitors while simultaneously supporting local causes. The combination of holiday cheer, local charity, and tourism-driven events has made the festival a key component of St. Augustine’s winter tourism strategy.

While the festival offers a memorable experience for visitors, its true impact is seen in the lives it touches – providing shelter, support, and stability to those in need. The St. Augustine Society continues to thrive thanks to the generosity and support of event participants, volunteers, and donors. As the festival continues to grow in popularity, it will undoubtedly play a central role in shaping the future of Florida’s tourism industry, offering travelers a meaningful way to experience the state’s holiday traditions while making a difference in the lives of those who need it most.