Festival of Trees FAQs
GENERAL
What is the Festival of Trees?
The Festival of Trees is a fundraiser where sponsors donate decorated trees and/or wreaths to be auctioned off with proceeds going to the Friends of the Soda Springs Library. The auction is the main part of the event, but many people come to view the beauty and creativity of the entries. There is a raffle with many amazing items, and Santa usually pays a visit as well!  It’s a staple community event, loved and supported by the people of Soda and surrounding areas.
When is the Festival of Trees?
The festival will be held Saturday, November 22, 2025 from 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm at the Historic Enders Building
Who attends the Festival of Trees?
Everyone! There is something for every age at the festival. Nothing invites the holiday spirit like a beautiful, historic building full of creative and beautiful trees! 
Is there an admission fee for the Festival of Trees?
No, there is no cost to attend the festival, but donations to the friends are always accepted - and appreciated! Cash, check or Venmo accepted.
What is “Friends of the Soda Springs Public Library”?
The Friends of the Soda Springs Public Library is a non-profit 501c(3) whose mission is to promote, enhance and expand the services of the library for the benefit of the community.
In what ways do the Friends “support” the library?
The Friends have helped with many projects over the years. In 2025, we’ve provided TWO new 3D printers, cotton candy machine for patrons to rent, new fish and tank upgrades, kids room “store,” sensory-play items, and a bulk (400 page) paper slicer. In years past, the kids room addition and kitchen remodel are among the top donations.
I’d like to bid on a tree or wreath, but I’m unable to attend the event on November 22. Are there any options?
Yes! All bidding will take place online. Anyone can bid! More details will be announced on our website and social media pages as the event approaches.
FOR SPONSORS
What types of donations are accepted?
The most common donations are fully  decorated trees (any size!) and wreaths to be sold in the silent auction. We also accept gift cards/certificates, products and services related to the donor’s business, home decor, or anything a sponsor would like to give for a raffle! Monetary donations are also graciously welcome. We have packages available where sponsors pay the Friends to supply a decorated tree on their behalf - click here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1afEPOywg00UEcUcgif2nXIni0I43DCBm/view?usp=drivesdk to learn more about sponsorship packages. 
What is the design expectation for a “fully decorated tree” if I decide to donate?
There isn’t one! Some donors choose to add gift cards, toys, products related to their business, etc. to the tree for some fun (especially for those created for kiddos). Others prefer to donate more traditional trees with the goal of bringing beauty and creativity to a home or business. Some choose a very specific theme. Others decorate with more variety. We love and graciously accept any type of tree! Have fun with it!
Are there any requirements for my tree/wreath submission?
Yes. Please consider the following:
- Anything/Everything in the submission is part of the donation. Sponsors shouldn’t add something (for example, decorations or props) and then request the items back. Buyers should know what they’re getting without complications. 
- We prefer the entire tree to be decorated (360 degrees). It’s recommended but not required. 
- Since all submissions will be transported after purchase, we require that all decorations (including toppers) be wired-in and secure as possible. Pipe cleaners and/or green floral wire are popular options. Lights and picks are the exception to this rule. 
- Depending on the size and build of the tree, we recommend using wire (or multiple zip ties) to secure sections of tree to each other to avoid the tree splitting during transport. 
How are the trees transported?
Each buyer is responsible for transportation, so methods may differ. All trees are wrapped in plastic to ensure a safe transfer.
Do I need to provide an extension cord?
No, the Friends will provide extension cords and/or power strips for the festival.
Can I add an item to my tree/wreath submission?
YES! Some of our most popular entries have included items that were part of the package. Toys, outdoor equipment, tumblers, coolers, and so much more can be added to the submission to make it stand out. These are incredibly popular! It’s a great route to go if you’re not confident in tree decorating or wreath making.
Will there be Voters Choice Awards given in 2025?
Yes, all event attendees will be given the opportunity to vote. One award will be given for the favorite tree, and another for favorite wreath!
What is the “program” listed on the sponsorship form?
The program will be a booklet handed out to all attendees at the festival. It will include tree/wreath photos and descriptions, sponsor list, advertisements from local businesses, information about the library and more. If your business is looking for exposure, this is a great way to advertise to a wide range of community members! 
How do I sign up to sponsor/participate?
New in 2025 - Sponsors can sign up and submit payment (if applicable) on our website here:
https://pci.jotform.com/form/252314036426146
Alternatively, participants can sign up in-person or by mail, enclosing the form found here:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1afEPOywg00UEcUcgif2nXIni0I43DCBm/view?usp=drivesdk
Do I have to complete the registration form even if I’m not planning on donating a tree or wreath?
Yes, all participants should complete the registration form if possible including raffle item donors and monetary donors. This process helps us stay organized, as well as let’s us know who to thank!
What payment methods are accepted for my sponsorship?
Sponsors can pay online at the time of registration. There is a “pay later” option iIf cash/check is preferred. Sponsors can also download this form:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1afEPOywg00UEcUcgif2nXIni0I43DCBm/view?usp=drivesdk
and return it with payment to the library in-person or via mail:
Friends of the Soda Springs Library
Beth Cheirrett
149 S Main St.,
Soda Springs, ID 83276
*Please make checks payable to the Friends of the Soda Springs Library
Do all sponsors submit a payment?
No. Sponsors who design and decorate (DIY) their own entries and raffle item donors do not need to submit additional funds - your donation IS your payment (and we are so grateful)! Payment is for those purchasing a Platinum, Gold, Silver, or Bronze package.
When and how do I submit my logo and advertisement?
Logos and advertisements are due by October 10th and should be emailed to sslibraryfriends@gmail.com. 
Can you use the ad and/or logo I submitted last year?
We ARE able to use the logos submitted last year - Sponsors should just email  sslibraryfriends@gmail.com to verify. Unfortunately, we’ve had to rework the layout of the program in 2025. Most of the advertisements submitted last year will not be the correct size/proportions needed for the program. 
I’d like to have an advertisement in the program, but I don’t have the resources to do it myself. What are my options?
The Friends don’t offer design services, but we highly recommend one of our most dedicated volunteers, Paige Messerly of Paige & Page to design advertisements. Not only is Paige a seasoned designer and Friend of the library, she has worked closely with us and understands the inner-workings of our program layout. Contact her at  (208) 919-3517 for pricing and a quote before October 1, 2025.
When and how do I submit my raffle item?
Raffle items can be dropped off at the library any time. If nonperishable, we ask they be received by November 1st. For perishable items, please describe and indicate a day-of (or similar) dropoff. A Friend will reach out with questions if there are any. 
I’m not sure if I’ll make the registration deadline. What are my options?
There are many moving parts to planning the festival. It’s imperative we have an accurate count of entries early on, along with ads and logos to ensure a smooth event. We will not accept any late tree/wreath entries, but we will graciously accept monetary donations, raffle items. As always, we invite you to purchase a tree/wreath in the auction!
