Join us on Saturday, December 5, 2026, at the historic Omni Shoreham Hotel for an unforgettable evening celebrating inclusion, community, and the achievements of Special Olympics DC athletes.

An Evening of Celebration

Enjoy a cocktail reception, buffet dinner, open bar, live entertainment, and exciting silent and live auctions featuring travel, dining, sports, and exclusive experiences. Throughout the evening, you'll hear inspiring stories from Special Olympics DC athletes and have the opportunity to support their journeys through our Fund-a-Need program.

Together, we will celebrate the power of inclusion while raising critical funds to ensure Special Olympics DC athletes continue to thrive both on and off the playing field.

A Washington Tradition with Lasting Impact

For nearly 40 years, the Night of Trees Gala has been one of Washington, DC's most cherished holiday traditions, bringing together business leaders, philanthropists, community partners, and Special Olympics DC athletes for an unforgettable evening celebrating inclusion, achievement, and opportunity.

As the premier fundraising event for Special Olympics DC, Night of Trees provides critical funding that supports year-round sports, health, leadership, and inclusion programs for over 2,500 athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout the District.

Every dollar raised helps ensure that everyone can participate at no cost to themselves or their families.

What Your Support Makes Possible

When you attend, sponsor, bid, or donate, you help Special Olympics DC provide:

• Year-round training and competition in 12 Olympic-style sports
• Free health screenings and wellness programs that improve quality of life
• Athlete Leadership programs that empower athletes to become advocates, speakers, and community leaders
• Unified Sports experiences where athletes with and without intellectual disabilities compete together
• School and youth programs that foster inclusion, respect, and understanding
• Life-changing opportunities that build confidence, independence, friendships, and lasting community

Your generosity creates opportunities that extend far beyond the playing field.

An Evening to Remember

Night of Trees is more than a gala, it's a celebration of community, generosity, and the remarkable accomplishments of Special Olympics DC athletes.

Your evening includes:

• A festive cocktail reception
• Stunning decorated holiday trees throughout the Omni Shoreham Hotel
• Silent and live auctions featuring exclusive experiences and unique packages
• An elegant dinner
• Inspiring athlete stories and special presentations
• Live entertainment and dancing
• Opportunities to directly support Special Olympics DC through our Fund-A-Need program

Whether you're joining friends, entertaining clients, or celebrating the season with family, Night of Trees offers an unforgettable holiday experience while making a meaningful impact.

Night of Trees by the Numbers

Nearly 40 Years
A beloved Washington, DC holiday tradition.

2,500+ Athletes
Served annually through Special Olympics DC programs.

12 Olympic-Style Sports
Providing year-round opportunities for competition, growth, and achievement.

One Extraordinary Evening
Helping fund approximately one-third of Special Olympics DC's annual operating support.

Bid for a Great Cause

Our Silent and Live Auctions feature exceptional packages and one-of-a-kind experiences generously donated by businesses, organizations, and supporters throughout the Washington region.

You'll discover exciting travel experiences, fine dining, sports memorabilia, entertainment packages, luxury items, exclusive experiences, and much more.

Every winning bid directly supports Special Olympics DC athletes while giving you the opportunity to take home something truly special.

Become a Sponsor

Partner with one of Washington's premier nonprofit fundraising events while demonstrating your organization's commitment to inclusion, community leadership, and opportunity.

Night of Trees sponsorship provides meaningful visibility before, during, and after the event while directly supporting life-changing programs that empower athletes to compete, lead, and thrive.

Whether you're introducing your company to new audiences or deepening your community impact, your partnership helps create opportunities that last all year long.

Can't Attend?

You can still make a meaningful difference.

A tax-deductible donation to Special Olympics DC helps provide year-round sports training, health services, leadership development, and inclusive programming for thousands of athletes across Washington, DC.

Every gift, regardless of size, helps ensure that every athlete has the opportunity to discover their strengths, achieve their goals, and experience the joy of belonging.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the dress code?

Holiday Cocktail Attire or Black Tie Optional.  See photos from last year!

Where is the event held?

The historic Omni Shoreham Hotel in Washington, DC.

Is parking available?

Valet and self-parking are available through the Omni Shoreham Hotel.

Are donations tax-deductible?

Yes. Special Olympics DC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and donations are tax-deductible as permitted by law.

Can I attend if I don't know anyone?

Absolutely! Many guests attend individually or as couples and quickly become part of the welcoming Night of Trees community.

Join Us in Creating a More Inclusive Washington

When you attend the Night of Trees Gala, you are doing far more than purchasing a ticket; you are investing in opportunity, inclusion, and the extraordinary potential of Special Olympics DC athletes.

Together, we celebrate achievement, inspire hope, and help build a community where every athlete is recognized, every accomplishment is celebrated, and everyone belongs.

We look forward to welcoming you to an unforgettable evening in support of Special Olympics DC.