The Festival of Treesbegan at the Everson Museum of Arton Friday, kicking of the event that’s become a holiday tradition for 28 years running. The trees showcased are donated and decorated by businesses in the area, and they range from the traditional to the unique – there’s the tree celebrating the arrival of Ophelia, the Rosamond Gifford Zoo's new octopus, a peacock-themed tree greeting people at the entrance, and even a Harley-Davidson themed tree complete with flames wrapped around the branches and coupons to the Harley Davidson store.
Everson Assistant Director Sarah Massett says there’s another element to the celebration to put people in the holiday spirit:
This year the event also includes a holiday café, where museum visitors can stop in for complimentary tea, coffee and light snacks. Unlike most of the art normally at the Everson, the decorations are for sale, priced for anywhere from $25 to $1200 for a tree, wreath, or faux-evergreen mantle. The Everson delivers purchased trees that are four feet or taller.
Massett says the trees serve as the Everson’s biggest annual fundraiser, and the money raised goes back into the art museum for ongoing exhibitions and classes for kids. The Festival runs through December 15.