The 2026 Newtown Holiday Festival may be a few months away, but those with competitive and/or decorative leanings may want to take note now: organizers are seeking entries for two elements of the popular event that benefits Newtown Youth & Family Services.

The festival will be presented Sunday, December 6, 11 am to 4 pm, along Main Street.

Festival Of Trees

Organizers are seeking local businesses, organizations, community groups, and families to donate a beautifully decorated tree, wreath, gift basket, or other holiday display for the Festival of Trees.

The event will again showcase the creativity and holiday spirit of the Newtown community.

Decorated Christmas trees, wreaths, baskets, and festive displays will be presented in the Glover Community Room of Trinity Episcopal Church. Visitors will be invited to stroll through the collection, finding inspiration for their own holiday decorating and/or choosing their favorites to win through a raffle.

Delivery of donated items will be Friday and Saturday, December 4-5.

Those planning to participate are asked to confirm by November 15.

Gingerbread House Competition

Festival organizers are also looking for gingerbread house entries. Families, businesses, schools, youth groups, and community organizations are all encouraged to participate and get creative.

Decorated entries are also due at Trinity Church, where this event will also be hosted, on December 4 or 5.

Voting will be done in person by Holiday Festival attendees and online in the categories of Youth 12 & Under and Family/Group/Adult. Prizes will be awarded to the entry with the most votes in each category.

For additional information about these events, or Newtown Holiday Festival overall, visit newtownyouthandfamilyservices.org and click on the lime green 41st Annual Holiday Festival tab near the top of the page.

To participate in either or both events, contact Susan Smith at ssmith@newtownyouthandfamilyservices.org.