Festival of Trees: Opening Night Sip & Stroll

Start: Thursday, November 5, 2026 5:30PM
End: Thursday, November 5, 2026 8:00PM

4th Annual Festival of Trees Santas Around the World | November 5th, 6th and 8th, 2026 Celebrate the magic of the holiday season at the 4th Annual Festival of Trees, hosted by the Friends of the Oktibbeha County Heritage Museum in Starkville, Mississippi! This beloved community celebration returns with a festive new theme, “Santas Around the World,” highlighting the beauty and diversity of holiday traditions from across the globe. The museum will be transformed into a holiday wonderland filled with beautifully decorated Christmas trees and wreaths, each showcasing the creativity and imagination of local individuals, businesses, civic organizations, and community groups. Whether you're looking for a festive evening with friends, a family holiday outing, or a unique way to support local history, the Festival of Trees offers something special for everyone. Sip & Stroll Opening Night Celebration: Thursday, November 5, 2026 - 5:30 PM until 8:00 PM Be among the first to experience this year's Festival of Trees at our special opening night celebration! Sip & Stroll offers guests an opportunity to explore the holiday displays, enjoy a festive atmosphere, and celebrate the talented decorators and generous sponsors who make this event possible. It's a wonderful way to begin the holiday season while supporting one of Starkville's treasured cultural institutions. Not only do you get to view the trees and wreaths, you can also participate in the silent auction and bid on your favorite with an opportunity to take it home. Tour of Trees: Friday, November 6 & Sunday, November 8, 2026 Bring your family and friends to experience the magic of the Festival of Trees! Wander through the museum and discover an impressive collection of Christmas trees and wreaths decorated in a variety of traditional, contemporary, and imaginative styles. From elegant holiday designs to creative interpretations of our international theme, each display reflects the unique talents of its decorator. Bid on your favorite tree and wreath to take home at the end of the event. Admission is $10 per person, and children ages 12 and under are admitted free. Holiday Silent Auction: One of the highlights of the Festival of Trees is our holiday silent auction, featuring decorated trees, wreaths, and other special items. Guests will have an opportunity to bid on their favorite creations and perhaps take home a beautiful addition to their own holiday celebrations. Online bidding makes participating convenient, with proceeds supporting the museum's mission. A Celebration with a Purpose: The Festival of Trees is more than a seasonal attraction. It is an important annual fundraising event that helps the Oktibbeha County Heritage Museum preserve and share the stories, artifacts, and traditions that define our community. Proceeds support museum exhibits, educational opportunities, community programs, and special events throughout the year. By attending, sponsoring, decorating, or participating in the auction, you are helping ensure that the history of Oktibbeha County remains accessible and meaningful for future generations. The Festival of Trees is made possible through the generosity of our sponsors, volunteer decorators, community partners, and supporters. Their creativity, time, and financial contributions help make this event a growing holiday tradition.