Trees Decorated by the Community on Display at CF Appleton Museum of Art

Now through Jan. 12, visit the Appleton Museum of Art, College of Central Florida, for a festive display of trees decorated by community groups, organizations and businesses. This annual, community-driven tradition is showcased alongside “A Dickens Christmas: The Urban Family’s Holiday Exhibition,” creating a memorable holiday experience throughout the museum for all ages to enjoy.

During the summer months, the Appleton seeks participants from the local community to provide and decorate themed trees to adorn the second-floor galleries during the holiday season.

“Each year, our participants provide beautifully decorated trees that reflect the mission and spirit of their organization, while others delight visitors with their imaginative designs,” said Victoria Billig, assistant director of the Appleton Museum of Art. “We’re really happy to have such great representation from our community partners this year and we appreciate all of the hard work and thoughtfulness that is clearly reflected in their displays.”

This year’s participants include Appleton Artspace, Better Together, Bridge to Hope, CAMPUS USA Credit Union, College of Central Florida, East Marion Elementary, Hands Up Communications with LN Signs and Greater Marion County Association of the Deaf (GMCAD), Hiers-Baxley Funeral Services, Humane Society of Marion County, North Central Florida Media and Urban Counseling.

Regular admission fees apply to visit. Admission is free on the first Saturday of each month as part of the Free First Saturday program. Free First Saturdays are supported in part by CAMPUS USA Credit Union, Marion Cultural Alliance and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Visit the museum on the Dec. 7 Free First Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., for the annual Holiday Community Day, sponsored by the Urban family. Enjoy face painting, photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, holiday crafts and more! For more details, visit AppletonMuseum.org.

The Appleton Museum, Artspace and store are open Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, noon-5 p.m. A campus of the College of Central Florida, the Appleton Museum of Art is located at 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala, east of downtown on SR 40 (exit 352 east off I-75 or exit 268 west off I-95). Parking is free. For more information, call 352-291-4455 or visit AppletonMuseum.org.