The history behind the event...Barton Foundation Logo

The Barton Foundation has a long history of hosting a Christmas event in South Lake Tahoe. What started in 1997 as the “Special Tradition” Christmas party at the Emerald Bay Trading Co. moved to the Heavenly Village in 2003 and in 2009 evolved to become the Festival of Trees and Lights. This multi-day family-oriented Festival is the kick off to the holiday season and offers the South Lake Tahoe community and surrounding areas a wonderful event while at the same time raising much-needed funds for our area hospital.

In 2010, the Festival saw nearly 3,000 visitors at our signature events and during Public Viewing, featured more than 60 trees and other holiday décor items, 15 designer trees, two great raffles, non-stop entertainment, Santa and friends, a gorgeous gift shop, crafts and so much more! Best of all, we raised nearly $30,000 for the Barton Community Clinic.

We are so thankful to the South Lake Tahoe community, to our designers, our sponsors, our volunteers, and to everyone who helped to make our first year a resounding success.

Thank you for your support!