Festival of Trees - Orlando Museum of Art

I look forward to it every year. I scour the internet hoping to be the first to view the announcement of the upcoming theme and kick-off date, then mark my calendar months in advance. Every year, in Mid-November, the Orlando Museum of Art is transformed into a Festival that provides a delightful beginning to my holiday season.

The Festival of Trees is the major fundraiser for the Museum, bringing about 20,000 people each year. Since its inception almost 3 decades ago, the Festival has contributed more than $5 million dollars to the Museum. Central Florida businesses, corporations, and individuals sponsor the Festival's trees and holiday displays with their cash and in-kind contributions. Then, the one-of-a-kind trees, wreaths, vignettes, and gingerbread houses are offered for sale to the public.

Storybook Magic…

Every year the Festival of Trees has a new theme. Of all the holiday memories I've created at this annual event, none were more lasting than this theme: Once Upon a Time, A Fairy Tale Festival!

From the moment I paid the meager $10 admittance fee (grossly under-charged in my opinion), I found myself immersed in an enchanted winterscape of designer trees, elaborate wreaths, and centerpieces all themed with storybook magic. The Orlando Museum of Art was meticulously transformed into an eye-pleasing haven with imaginative interpretations of classic fairy tales. This fairy-tale pause from the hectic pace of Orlando's theme parks and tourist-traps evoked feelings of nostalgia and fond childhood memories.

Once upon a time… long before books were made, people told stories. Of the 50+ trees I encountered, each told its own story for all who had 'ears to hear.' At times I was mesmerized, twice frightened, and once I thought I had seen Prince Charming!

As you enjoy the photo tour, my goal is that inspiration will find you as you take in the visual feast of the trees and vignettes. As you linger here, allow the Festival of Trees to fill you with holiday spirit and joy!

This video is for your listening pleasure as you gaze upon the splendid trees trimmed in fairy-tale finery by Orlando's best! Enjoy the sounds and sights of this magical season!

Close your eyes and tap your heels 3 times...

This tree twinkled with a twist to Dorothy's traditional red sequined shoes. How about a pair in every color of the rainbow?

In this vignette, I was transported into a fairy tale land aglow with glittering lights and magical hues of white, blue and red.

A Tale of a Tail

In a world of folklore and make-believe, no tree topper was necessary as Puff's gigantic tail was entwined throughout the entire tree!

My hats off to the creative minds that generously donated their time and talent making this vignette so stellar! What a hip, jaw-dropping rendition with a few edgy surprises. And yes, Sebastian did seem a little 'crabby' the day I was there!

gave wings to my imagination that day!

Totally enchanting in fuschia and lime green!

No prolonged gaze on this one. If I didn't know any better, it seemed as if a thousand eyes were staring back at me!

I love Christmas trees. Every year I like to add a new one to my collection. They are strategically placed throughout the house. Here are just a few ideas for your consideration.

~ Place a small Christmas tree in a child's bedroom decorated with small toys, miniature dolls, or sports items.

~ Welcome guests with a small tree in the guest room.

~ Place a small tree in a corner of the kitchen counter, decorated with miniature kitchen items found in a toy store.

~ A small tree in the guest bathroom is sure to leave a lasting impression.

~ Metallic Christmas trees are making a big comeback. They are colorful and perfect for 'themed' trees. (Gold is my favorite color!)

~ Don't forget the master bedroom! Try sharing a gift with your loved one before heading to the family room on Christmas morning.

The possibilities are endless! Christmas decorations are becoming more personal each season. Gather up items that are special to you, ones that particularly express your interests. Since the 'unexpected' is one of the hottest trends, I just know you'll have the trendiest tree on the block!

The images in this article are all my own. © 2012 Glenda Motsavage

Per the Orlando Museum of Art rules, photos of the Festival of Trees were allowed, as long as the Museum Artwork was not included.