Festival of Greens to haul out holly at Frederick Cultural Arts Center
The public is invited to kick off their holiday celebration during the second Frederick Festival of Greens, a nine-day event scheduled for November 20-29.
Up to 100 wreaths and trees have been decorated by artists, businesses, community residents, and local organizations. Throughout the Festival, anyone can take a chance at winning one of the holiday decorations by bidding throughout the silent auction. Wreaths and trees range from the fancy to the funky. Many also include gift certificates and other items that accompany the wreath for the buyer to utilize.
In addition to the wreaths on display, several other holiday activities are planned.
"We are really excited about the schedule of activities that have been put together," said Shuan Butcher, executive director of the Frederick Arts Council, in a press release.
"Given the current state of the economy, this provides a great outlet for families without any costs involved."
The schedule includes performances by Act Too! Children's Theater Company on Saturday and a Children's Day on Nov. 28. The free children's activities provide an opportunity for local kids to make home-made gifts, have fun, and learn a dance lesson by Equinox Dance Company.
The celebration will kick off with The Holly Dance, featuring the Star Spangled Big Band, from 8-11 p.m. Friday. A cash bar and concessions will be offered. Tickets are $7.
Throughout the festival, The Fredericktowne Players will perform their holiday show, "Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and Then Some!)," beginning Saturday at The Cultural Arts Center.
A holiday artist market will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Nov. 27, showcasing the work of more than thirty regional artists. Attendees will be able to purchase items such as jewelry, paintings, pottery, photography, jewelry, hand woven items, and other hand-crafted products. Free gift wrapping will be provided by Downtown Frederick Partnership along with hot chocolate courtesy of The Perfect Truffle.
The event culminates on Nov. 29 with live music from 3-5 p.m. and the close of the silent auction. Successful bidders will be able to retrieve their wreath or tree in time to decorate their own homes or businesses.
"We have many beautiful wreaths to choose from and all proceeds support the arts in Frederick County," said marketing and development director Apple Reese in a press release.
Throughout the festival, limited-edition copies of Rebecca Pearl's watercolor print, "The Art in Five and Dime," will be available for purchase. The numbered and signed prints featuring a downtown Frederick winter scene from Market Street are available for $75 each or $125 for artist proofs.
Individuals will also be able to vote on their favorite wreath or tree for a People's Choice Award.
For a detailed schedule of events, visit www.frederickartscouncil.org.
All activities will take place at the Frederick Cultural Arts Center, 15 W. Patrick St., Frederick.
For more information, call 301-662-4190.