Scottsdale Fashion Square is putting a fresh Arizona twist on a beloved holiday tradition. After last year’s successful debut, Trees for Hope, a holiday initiative that combines creativity, community, and philanthropy, returns with a bold new look—this time swapping evergreens for artfully decorated saguaros. The 2025 exhibit, “Trees for Hope: Cactus Collection Edition,” reimagines holiday décor with uniquely designed saguaro cacti and festive wreaths, all created by local artists, florists, retailers, and designers.
Each participant was challenged to craft pieces inspired by Arizona—from sunsets to shimmering holiday lights to desert motifs. The result is a vibrant, whimsical collection that transforms pre-made saguaros and pine wreaths into holiday vignettes, complete with items such as toppers, ornaments, skirting, ribbons, garlands, and more. While the cacti make dramatic statement pieces, the wreaths offer equally elegant style on a smaller scale, perfect for smaller spaces.
While the 11 cacti and 14 wreaths are on display throughout the West and Luxury Wings of Scottsdale Fashion Square through Fri., Dec. 5, they are also part of a five-week silent auction. The community is invited to browse and bid on them, with proceeds from the event benefiting the Hope Fund for Phoenix Children’s, a fund dedicated to helping to provide critical new programs, purchase essential equipment, conduct cutting-edge research, and ensure that every child who needs treatment receives it.
Winning bidders can pick up their cacti and wreaths after the exhibit concludes.
“Trees for Hope brings the magic of the holidays to life in a way that’s both heartwarming and impactful,” says Tim Harrison, vice president of corporate partnerships, special events & grant philanthropy at Phoenix Children’s. “As guests explore this stunning showcase of holiday artistry, they’re invited to embrace the true spirit of the season—giving back. Each tree is a celebration of creativity and compassion, and every bid helps support the Hope Fund and the countless families it serves.
Trees for Hope is part of Scottsdale Fashion Square’s Haute Holiday Collective, which also features Sounds of the Season with Sam & Stone of Get Ready Entertainment, Santa photos, the Angel Tree program with Salvation Army, and a lineup of festive live performances.
“Each holiday season, Scottsdale Fashion Square exudes a special energy as shoppers know they can count on finding the perfect gifts for everyone on their list, as well as stylish accessories for home décor and entertaining,” says Melanie Sutton, senior marketing manager. “The community also counts on the shopping center and its creative efforts to support seasonal giving. This impressive collection lends to the festive ambiance while engaging guests in the spirit of giving as we support Phoenix Children’s.”
