BROOKINGS – The Brookings Arts Council has been gearing up for weeks in anticipation of the wondrous world of enchantment known as the Festival of Trees.  

Starting this weekend, the much-anticipated event displays creatively decorated holiday trees sponsored by businesses, schools, and community organizations, inspired by this year’s theme: Camp Candy Cane.

The Festival of Trees will officially open from noon-5 p.m. Saturday and will welcome visitors from noon-5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays until Dec. 23. Many weekends will feature the music of area pianists for added holiday ambiance, and special Sunday viewings are planned for 1-4 p.m. Nov. 26, Dec. 3 and Dec 10. 

The annual Festival of Trees also gives visitors the opportunity to bid on handcrafted gifts at its annual silent auction and children’s raffle.

BAC Executive Director Heather Kuhlman said the Brookings Woodcarvers have once again created amazing hand-carved ornaments that are sought-after Christmas gifts each year. 

“The children’s raffle is sponsored by Brost’s Fashion and features plush animals that are sure to bring a smile to any child,” she added. 

This year’s artisan silent auction features hand-crafted items by Linda Hoffelt, Karen Kinder, Theresa Crawford, Jamison Lamp, Ed Hogan and Heather Kuhlman along with Art pARTners, Joy Ranch, The Carrot Seed Kithcen Co. and Riddle’s Jewelry.  

The ornament sale, raffle and silent auction will all begin Saturday, with the auction and raffle concluding at 5 p.m. Dec. 8. The winning bidders and raffle winner will be contacted Dec. 9.  

“The board of directors are thrilled at the partnerships with the businesses and artists to bring a new twist to our holiday fundraising,” Kuhlman said. “We wanted to have people experience-learn-explore … in essence, the art of living and giving this holiday season. This year, our artists and pARTners really stepped up to make things extra special for our patrons.”

On Nov. 30, the Brookings Arts Council will stay open until 7 p.m. for patrons to enjoy the Festival of Trees, the historic trolley rides and the Parade of Lights and also participate in its membership drive.  

Those who become a member of the Brookings Arts Council on Nov. 30 will receive a coloring book created by Brookings artists featuring prominent sites in the city. The coloring books are exclusive to the Brookings Arts Council and are available for purchase at the BAC.

The Brookings Arts Council’s holiday fundraiser proceeds are used to offset costs of educational programs, artist receptions and gallery shows, which are offered at low or no cost to artists and Brookings area residents. 

For more than three decades, the Festival of Trees has brought people together to marvel at the creative expressions of celebration for the holiday season from different points of view and have the opportunity to purchase original art for their gift giving. 

For additional information or questions, call the Brookings Arts Council at 692-4177.