LA GRANDE — La Grande is gearing up for a festive celebration on Saturday, Dec. 7 with the 38th annual Festival of Trees and Family Fun Day at the La Grande Armory Convention Center, 404 12th St.

This magical event is a highlight of the community’s holiday season, bringing together residents and visitors for a day filled with joy, creativity, and philanthropy.

The event is organized by Soroptimist International of La Grande, a global volunteer organization that works to improve the lives of women and girls through programs leading to social and economic empowerment. The event is a major fundraiser that supports local scholarships, healthcare initiatives and community grants.

The Festival of Trees transforms the venue into a winter wonderland with beautifully decorated trees, wreaths and holiday displays created by local businesses, organizations and individuals, along with merchandise of a more practical nature.

The Family Fun Day, running from 9 a.m. to noon, offers a variety of activities designed to entertain and engage families, along with viewing the decorated trees.

It is packed with activities that cater to all ages. Santa will be there for photos and to hear Christmas wish lists. Mrs. Claus will be running a cookie kitchen where children can decorate their own Christmas cookies. There will also be a fishing pond to try your luck at catching a vast collection of stuffed animals.

Children can also enjoy hands-on activities provided by local organizations, ranging from chemistry experiments to creating a comic strip. The event also features live entertainment, including performances by local musicians, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Admission to this lively event is a donation of a can of food for the local food bank.

The highlight of the Festival of Trees is the auction, where attendees can bid on the beautifully decorated trees, wreaths and other holiday items, as well as great gifts for everyone on your list.

The auction is conducted in a silent format, allowing participants to place their bids beginning at 8 a.m. Dec. 5 and finishing at 6 p.m. Dec. 7. Register for the auction at https://charityauction.bid/LaGrandeFestivalofTrees and get in on the fun.

The excitement culminates in a live auction for select high-value items, where the highest bidders take home their prized decorations and gifts. All proceeds from the auction go directly to Soroptimist International of La Grande, supporting their various programs and initiatives.

For more information, email fot@lagrandesoroptimist.com. You can check out some of the items up for bid by visiting the Soroptimist International of La Grande Facebook page.