Join Us for the 2026 Festival of Trees!
Supporting Cancer Care Close to Home
This year’s Festival of Trees helps fund a new Linear Accelerator (LINAC) for the MercyOne Waterloo Cancer Center. A LINAC is advanced cancer treatment technology that delivers highly targeted radiation to cancer cells while protecting surrounding healthy tissue.
Cancer touches nearly everyone in some way—our family members, friends, coworkers, and neighbors. By bidding on these wonderful auction items, you're not only taking home something special, you're helping provide life-saving cancer care close to home for members of our community.
Your support helps provide safer, more precise cancer treatments and ensures local patients can receive exceptional cancer care right here in the Cedar Valley.
Our goal for this year's Silent Auction is $16,800, with a stretch goal of $22,000. Bidding for trees, wreaths, and other fantastic items opens Nov. 10, 2026. New items will be added throughout the week! Check back often for updates — all auction items, including trees and wreaths, will be live by Nov. 16. Don’t miss your favorites!
Rumor Ridenour – Artist Bio
Rumor Ridenour is from Independence, Iowa, and was born at MercyOne Waterloo Medical Center. She graduated from Independence Jr./Sr. High School and is currently a junior at Iowa State University, where she is studying Graphic Design with a minor in Illustration. Rumor has a twin sister, Reese, who attends the University of Northern Iowa and is pursuing a degree in nursing.
For this year's Festival of Trees, Rumor has created a 36" x 24" acrylic painting on canvas that captures the magic of Christmas from a unique perspective. Her artwork celebrates the hard work that goes on behind the scenes to make the holiday season special. Inspired by memories of exhausted parents after Christmas morning, Rumor imagines Santa Claus finally taking a well-deserved rest after delivering joy to children around the world. Yet even as Santa sleeps, a group of curious elves can't resist the excitement of opening their own presents, adding a touch of humor and wonder to the scene. Through this charming and imaginative piece, Rumor highlights the joy, dedication, and magic that make Christmas memories so meaningful.
Festival of Trees Details:
- Date: Nov. 17-22, 2026
- Location: Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center Lobby
- Online Auction: Nov. 10-22, 2026.
Event Highlights:
NEW THIS YEAR! We'll be hosting a Live Auction during our opening-night celebration, Festival at Night, on Tuesday, Nov. 17. A select number of items will be auctioned live during the evening, giving attendees an exclusive opportunity to bid on special items that will not be available through the online auction. Be sure to get your tickets and join the excitement!
While you're there, visit the Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center to admire the stunning trees and wreaths on display, and enjoy festive holiday music performed by local students throughout the week.
And don't forget the kids! Be sure to write a letter to Santa and drop it in Santa's mailbox inside the Gallagher. It's a magical tradition that families love year after year. 🎅📬
This beloved community event would not be possible without the passion and dedication of our Festival Ambassadors, who volunteer countless hours to bring the Festival of Trees to life. Their enthusiasm and commitment make this cherished holiday tradition possible.
If you're interested in helping with the 39th annual Festival of Trees in 2027, please contact the MercyOne Northeast Iowa Foundation office. We would love to have your support!
Blessings to all!
From the Foundation Team: Joe, Diane, Stephanie, and Darci
Visit us at: MercyOne.org/festivaloftrees | For additional information, call: 319-268-3161.
Mark Your Calendars:
Bidding for trees, wreaths, and other fantastic items opens Nov. 10 and ends Nov. 22 at 2pm, CST. Check back often! You, your company, or organization could take home a beautiful holiday display and support a life-saving cause.
Please note: All items must be picked up in person; shipping is not available.