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Media inquiries: Please contact Dave Neudeck, dave.neudeck@dcr.virginia.gov, 804-786-5053.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: February 02, 2026
Contact: Starr Anderson, Public Relations and Marketing Specialist, 540-460-1540, starr.anderson@dcr.virginia.gov

Natural Bridge State Park celebrates record-breaking 2025 Festival of Trees

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Friends of Natural Bridge State Park)

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: 2025 Festival of Trees)

Natural Bridge, Va. – Natural Bridge State Park and the Friends of Natural Bridge are proud to announce the successful conclusion of the 2025 Festival of Trees, marking an impactful season.

In November and December 2025, the park’s visitor center showcased 49 decorated trees, each meticulously crafted by local organizations dedicated to spreading holiday cheer and supporting the community.

Visitors were invited to vote for their favorite trees by placing a donation under them for the Natural Bridge/Glasgow Food Pantry and Unity4Kids. They could also purchase a ballot for $1 to support the Yellow Brick Road Learning Center.

Thanks to the generosity of more than 6,200 visitors, the 2025 Festival of Trees achieved remarkable results:

2,707 food items donated (totaling 2,380 pounds) to the Natural Bridge/Glasgow Food Pantry
2,088 items contributed to Unity4Kids
$1,454 raised through ballot votes for Yellow Brick Road Learning Center

“These numbers reflect the incredible generosity of our visitors and the dedication of every organization involved,” said Park Manager Jim Jones. “Together, we’ve made a meaningful impact for families across our region.”

For more information about the Festival of Trees or to learn how to participate in 2026, please call 540-291-1326 or email: NaturalBridge @dcr.virginia.gov.

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Virginia State Parks are managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. For more information about Virginia State Parks’ activities and amenities or to reserve one of the more than 1,800 campsites or 300 climate-controlled cabins, call the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 800-933-PARK or visit www.virginiastateparks.gov.

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