By Alaina Dunne
St Thomas’s Church in Stanningley was aglow with festive warmth on Saturday, 6 December 2025 as it hosted its first ever Christmas Tree Festival.
The event exceeded all expectations and brought the whole community together in celebration.
Organised by the Rev Lottie Jones and a dedicated team of volunteers, the festival transformed both the church and the church hall into a bustling hub of creativity, performance and Christmas cheer.
From the moment the church doors opened, visitors were welcomed into a packed programme of activities appealing to all ages. The church hall was bustling as a cheerful team of volunteers ran the festival café, serving hot drinks, food and, festive treats.
Children and adults alike took part in decoration making activities, adding personal touches of sparkle and colour to the day.
Pupils from Stanningley Primary School, Valley View Primary School, and Summerfield Primary School delighted audiences with festive songs, proudly showcasing the talent and enthusiasm of young people across the community. Their performances drew large crowds and added a joyful soundtrack to the festival.
But the true centrepiece of the event, and the feature that captured everyone’s imaginations, was the stunning display of Christmas trees that lined the aisles of St Thomas’s Church.
Each tree, contributed by a different community group or organisation, was thoughtfully designed to reflect the values, activities, and spirit of the group it represented. Some trees were traditional and twinkling, others bold and imaginative, and all were deeply personal.
As visitors wandered between the illuminated trees, they were treated to a visual celebration of Stanningley, its clubs, charities, schools, hobby groups, and services all represented through distinctive decorations and thoughtful storytelling.
The trees not only brightened the church’s interior but also highlighted the vibrant network of people and groups that make Stanningley such a great place to live.
By the end of the day, the success of the first Stanningley Christmas Tree Festival was clear. Hundreds of visitors had passed through the doors, and the spirit of togetherness that defines the festive season shone brightly.
Rev Lottie Jones praised the efforts of the volunteers and the enthusiasm of the community, expressing gratitude for the teamwork that made the event possible.
With such resounding support and joy surrounding the day, it is no surprise that the community is already looking forward to next year’s celebration.
If this year is any indication, the Stanningley Christmas Tree Festival is set to become a cherished annual tradition that brings the whole community together beneath the warm glow of Christmas lights.
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