Our History

Ivan Gering, owner of Papa’s Ice Cream Parlor in Washougal, called together a group of people in September of 2010 with the idea of starting the Festival of Trees.  His dream was to raise money for the schools, showcase local businesses, and provide a festive occasion for the entire community to enjoy.  The Washougal Lions Foundation adopted the festival as a project soon thereafter. The first festival was held in a vacant corner of Washougal Town Square.  The festival then moved to a larger, unused, space at Town Square for the next two years.  In 2013 the festival found a permanent home at Hathaway Elementary School in the heart of Washougal.

Our focus is enhancing educational opportunities for the students in Washougal School District.  We also strive to  facilitate community involvement and a showcase for our local and regional businesses.