36th Annual Festival of Trees Continues Through Dec. 29

There's still time to see the 36th annual Festival of Trees at the Somerset County Park Commission's Education Center in Basking Ridge, which includes a display of trees — many with an environmental twist — that includes a display of trees decorated by dozens of area groups, businesses and nearby residents.

The exhibit will be open to the public daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Sunday, Dec. 29, except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

The Snowflake Café will provide the opportunity to enjoy a hot beverage and fresh baked goods, and live music is presented on weekends.

The Environmental Education Center, at 190 Lord Stirling Road in Basking Ridge, New Jersey each year hosts the Central Jersey holiday tradition to provide a great way for families to enjoy the festivities of the holiday season. 

The Festival of Trees presents dozens of tree scenes with designs by volunteers who select their theme and decorate in their own style, with their personal artistic ability, according to information from the park commission. Some of the trees have a traditional holiday style, such as Girl Scout Troop 1268's "Save the Bats" tree.

A schedule of weekend performers is available by calling the Environmental Education Center at 908-766-2489,  or on the website at www.somersetcountyparks.org. 

There is a suggested donation of $5 per person for admission. Groups of 12 or more who schedule in advance will receive a 20 percent discount. Disadvantaged or disabled groups will be admitted for free. 

Proceeds from the annual event help support educational and community service programs at the EEC, a countywide facility with many environmental and educational programs scheduled throughout the year.