23rd-annual Festival of Holiday Trees set at Belleville Area Museum

The Belleville Area Museum is preparing for its 23rd-annual Festival of Holiday Trees, when community organizations, individuals, and businesses display decorated trees or wreaths at the museum.
This year’s festival will run from Tuesday, Nov. 22, through Wednesday, Dec. 21, when the public is invited in to view the museum by tree light with $2 admission.
Each entry should have a cultural or historical holiday theme or one that is representative of an organization. Past themes have included an old-fashioned Christmas, Santas, gingerbread men, peppermints, and patriotic.
Entries can be submitted in one of three categories: a floor-size artificial tree, a tabletop artificial tree (maximum three feet), or an artificial wreath with a sturdy wire attached for hanging.
All trees and wreaths need to have lights and people are asked to bring their own long extension cord(s) labeled with a name.
All artificial trees need to have their own tree stands, lights, decorations, tree skirt and a decorative sign that displays the name of the organization or business.
Museum Director Katie Dallos said that previous experience has shown that open exhibits such as these are usually safe, however, the museum cannot guarantee absolute security and cannot be responsible in case of loss or damage. Rare antique ornaments are not encouraged. Waivers will be required.
Applications must be received by Wednesday, Nov. 14, even if the decorating theme has not been decided. Questions? Call the museum at (734) 697-1944.
In addition to displaying a tree, the museum offers an option of donating a fully decorated tree for auction. The Silent Tree Auction has proven to be an excellent way to raise money for museum-sponsored programs and events, Dallos said.
This year’s auction will run from Nov. 17 to Dec. 19. Trees will be available for pickup up at 7 p.m. on Dec. 19. Those interested in participating in the silent auction may contact the museum at (734) 697-1944 or by email at [email protected] .