I absolutely love this festive time of the year.  The decorations, the wrapping paper, the music, the lights – and the gloriously decorated Christmas trees.  If you want to experience a family-friendly way to see all of this and more, then you still have time to go and see the Celebration of Trees, being held at the historic Springfield Barn in Williamsport, MD.

The event was started back in 2009, when organizers got the bright idea to try and recycle old or discarded artificial trees and decorations, putting them up in a town display and getting some use out of them (instead of throwing them in the landfill).  Dubbed the “Charlie Brown Christmas” (after that animated character’s famously decorated little tree), the event was a hit right from the start, showcasing thirty-five trees in that first year.

After the celebration was put on hold in 2020 due to COVID-19, the event is back and better than ever.  Now rebranded as the Celebration of Trees, the display has grown to over one hundred trees, all decorated by local businesses, school groups, and civic organizations from the town of Williamsport.  Each tree has a theme that relates to the organization.  The variety and creativity showcased by these groups is fun, whimsical, and inspiring, drawing in visitors to inspect each tree closely for the unique ornaments and decorations they may contain.  Visitors may find painted light bulbs or electrical boxes (on a tree sponsored by a local electrician) or discover small log cabin ornaments (on a tree sponsored by a local campground).

The beautiful historic Springfield Barn is the perfect venue for this event, and has been transformed into a holiday wonderland, with brightly colored trees dotting both levels of the inside of the space.  Don’t forget to look up, as the rafters are filled with lights, decorations, and even flying reindeer.  Kids can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, view a working model railroad display, or have their picture taken with an oversized teddy bear.  There’s even a larger-than-life “Elf on the Shelf.”  Volunteers hand out snack mix for the kids (and hungry adults), and the grounds outside have decorations as well, with a separate light display synced to music (with the soundtrack broadcast over the radio).

What’s better than all this holly jolly holiday cheer?  Why the price – of course.  It’s absolutely FREE!

If you’re looking for the perfect holiday event for family and friends, then the Celebration of Trees should be on your Christmas list.

IF YOU GO:

Celebration of Trees

The Historic Springfield Barn

2 Springfield Lane

Williamsport, MD  21795

12/14 & 12/15 – 11:00AM – 4:00 PM

12/17 & 12/18 – 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Parking is available onsite (FYI – the parking lot is very dark at night, so use caution)

TIPS TO ENJOY THE CELEBRATION:

• Crowds are bigger late on the weekdays and early on the weekends, so plan accordingly.
• Once you’ve enjoyed the display at the barn, I highly recommend taking a drive through the light display at Byron Memorial Park in Williamsport, which is just nearby.  Be aware that traffic will be congested on Route 11, so be patient.