Arboretum to hold festival of trees

Montgomery — The Friends of the Orange County Arboretum will host its annual “Festival of Trees, Greens and Boutique” from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Dec. 2 to 10. The public will have an opportunity to buy creative decorated tabletop trees, wreaths, garlands, and holiday decor during the nine-day event. The trees range from whimsical to elegant and surround the arboretum’s stately evergreen adorned with handcrafted miniature birdhouses and assorted natural ornaments. “Fresh poinsettia plants, centerpieces and specialty items make the perfect gift to enhance your holiday season,” said event co-chair, Patricia LeClair. “We are grateful to all our supporters and wish everyone to know that all proceeds from this event will benefit the Arboretum Endowment for future maintenance and beautification of the Orange County Arboretum,” said Dora Wright, master gardener and event co-chair. The festival will take place in the Ruth and Jim Ottaway Education Center in the arboretum in Thomas Bull Memorial Park, off Route 416 in the Town of Hamptonburgh. The arboretum features raised gardens, paved paths, water features, a greenhouse, classroom, and September 11 Remembrance Walkway and Garden. The festival is being held in cooperation with the County of Orange Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation. For information, call Paula M. Gorton at 457-4902.