Marco Island Center for the Arts Seeks Tree Decorators
Published on November 05, 2026
Marco Island, FL – November 4, 2026 The countdown to the holidays has begun, and Marco Island Center for the Arts is inviting creative individuals, families, businesses, clubs and organizations to participate in the 13th Annual Festival of Trees, December 1–4, 2026. The deadline to register as a tree decorator is Monday, November 23, at 4 p.m., and space is limited.
The Art Center is looking for enthusiastic participants to transform small 3 ft or smaller trees into festive holiday creations. Whether whimsical, elegant, traditional or completely unexpected, decorators are encouraged to let their imaginations run wild and create something that will delight Festival visitors.
Founded in 2014 by dedicated Marco Island volunteer and arts supporter Dave Rice, the Festival of Trees is both a holiday celebration and a community fundraising initiative. Proceeds benefit Marco Island Center for the Arts' nonprofit mission, supporting art classes for children and adults, exhibitions and community arts programming.
"We are excited to have people showcase their creative talent, providing a beautiful atmosphere for families that consider the Festival of Trees the official start to the holiday season," said Rice, founder of the Festival of Trees.
Become a Tree Decorator
Participation is free, and trees measuring three feet or smaller may be decorated in any style or theme. Decorators are responsible for providing
their own tree, lighting and decorating materials. Electrical outlets will be available.
Decorated trees will be featured in a silent auction, creating a unique opportunity for decorators to share their creativity while supporting the arts.
Auction proceeds are split between the decorator and Marco Island Center for the Arts, with each receiving 50% of the net proceeds. Decorators may also choose to donate 100% of their proceeds to the Art Center.
Festival visitors will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite tree, with the People's Choice Award announced December 3.
2026 Festival of Trees Schedule
• November 23: FINAL DAY to register as a tree decorator. Forms must be submitted by 4 p.m.
• November 30: Tree installation, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
• December 1–3: Festival of Trees and silent auction, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
• December 3: Silent auction closes at 4 p.m.; winning bidders will be notified.
• December 4: Tree pickup, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. All purchased trees must be paid for and collected. Decorators must also collect any unsold trees.
Don't Miss the Registration Deadline!
There is no registration fee, but space is limited. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations interested in decorating a tree must submit their registration forms no later than Monday, November 23, 2026, at 4 p.m.
About Marco Island Center for the Arts
Marco Island Center for the Arts brings a wide variety of arts to its community through art exhibitions, engaging educational programs for adults and children and a diverse assortment of events. The Arts Center Theatre offers both produced and presented theater productions as well as other live entertainment. The Art Center and its theater serve as professional and financial drivers for visual and performing artists and educators through exhibition, performance and teaching opportunities while being a catalyst that fuels economic development, an understanding of cultural diversity and community cohesion.