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Bloomington’s Switchyard pavilion hosts ‘Hope for the Holidays’ preview ahead of live tree auction

Holiday tree viewing for the “Hope for the Holidays” fundraiser opens Monday at Switchyard Park pavilion. The three-day event features music, children’s performances, Santa visits, and a food truck, leading up to Wednesday’s live auction benefiting New Hope for Families.

Hope for the Holidays 2025. (Holly Elkins, Nov. 16, 2025)

Monday (Nov. 17) at 6 p.m. marks the start of the public viewing phase for the trees that were decorated at Switchyard Park pavilion over the weekend ahead of Hope for the Holidays. It’s an annual fundraiser for New Hope for Families, a local nonprofit that is focused on supporting families who don’t have permanent housing—with shelter and childhood education.

The event culminates in a live auction on Wednesday (Nov. 17) for trees that have not already been purchased at the “Buy It Now” price on the tree.

There’s way more than just trees on display for the next three days. From the New Hope for Families website, here’s a rundown of the events:

Monday, Nov. 17, 6–8 p.m.
Doors open to the public at 6 p.m.
Holiday Jazz Trio at 6 p.m.

Tuesday, Nov. 18, 4–8 p.m.
Alissa Guntren Studio Young Musicians at 5 p.m.
Visit with Santa & Mrs. Claus 5:30–7 p.m.
Sherwood Oaks Church Children’s Choir at 6 p.m.

Wednesday, Nov. 19, 4–8 p.m.
Food truck on site 4–8 p.m.
Daydream at 4:30 p.m.
Online auction bidding ends at 5 p.m.
Quarryland Men’s Choir at 5:30 p.m.
Live auction starts at 6 p.m.

Here’s a preview of the trees from over the weekend by freelance photographer Holly Elkins.