The Gazette's Festival of Trees

Hosted by The Gazette, the Festival of Trees bills itself as Eastern Iowa's premier holiday event, turning the DoubleTree by Hilton at the Cedar Rapids Convention Complex into a winter wonderland. Dozens of trees and wreaths custom-decorated by local businesses, artists and organizations are auctioned off during the festival, with proceeds and a product drive supporting local nonprofits. The weekend celebration adds holiday train rides, visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, hourly performances, family activities and a holiday market of more than 45 Iowa vendors.

Our take: Families with sensory sensitivities should come Friday for Sensory Day, which adjusts the layout and keeps sights and sounds gentle, ahead of the large weekend crowds organizers expect.