Holiday Tree Gala
The Library Foundation’s annual Holiday Tree Gala is transforming in its 31st year, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone aboard!
This year’s special event highlighting the wonderful organizations in Hancock County that contribute to the success of the community and our library system will be open to the public with a suggested donation of $25 (or entry of a decorated tree to the judging contest!).
Join us in celebrating with food, drinks, and merriment on December 6, 2025, at the Bay St. Louis branch from 5:00-7:00 pm. Holiday cocktail wear is encouraged.
Your ticket/donation supports the Library Foundation of Hancock County. Individuals who have donated to the Foundation in the past year are welcome to the Gala without an additional entry fee.
We’re counting down the days until we can see you aglow among our magical forest of holiday trees.
Enter a Tree
Businesses, non-profit organizations, and civic groups may enter a tree to be seen by all of Hancock County through the month of December and voted on by our esteemed judges. You must provide your own tree and decorations.
This year’s theme is, “Y’all Aboard for a Magical Celebration!”
Businesses and organizations can set up and decorate their trees from Monday, November 17 through Thursday, December 4, 2025. Judging will take place on Friday, December 5, 2025.
Contact your local library branch (Bay St. Louis, Diamondhead, Kiln, Pearlington, or Waveland) if you have questions about participating in the holiday tree decorating event.
2025 Winners
Congratulations to Our Winners!
Bay St. Louis
1st Place – Hancock Resource Center
2nd Place – Boys & Girls Club
3rd Place – Caiden’s Corner
East Hancock/Diamondhead
1st Place – Diamondhead Garden Club
2nd Place – St. Thomas Episcopal Church
3rd Place – Diamondhead Art Group
Waveland Branch
1st Place – St. Clare Catholic Church
2nd Place – Ashman Mollere
3rd Place – Barbara Godchaux
Kiln Branch
1st Place – 4-H
2nd Place – Second Friday Book Club
3rd Place – HCCTC Engineering Class
Pearlington Branch
1st Place – Hancock County Port & Harbor Commission
2nd Place – INFINITY Science Center
3rd Place – Jennifer Crowe
Overall Systemwide Winners
1st Place – Hancock Resource Center
2nd Place – St. Clare Catholic Church
3rd Place – Diamondhead Garden Club
Honorable Mentions
Relay for Life
Pearlington Community Garden Seeds
Kiln Staff Tree
John Brdecka
Rotary Club of Bay St. Louis
Bay St. Louis Trees
East Hancock Trees
Waveland Trees
Kiln Trees
Pearlington Trees
Sponsors
HCLS is able to provide programs and activities thanks to the generous support of The Library Foundation of Hancock County.
