There was a spinning lady, a garden and even one with spark plugs.

Last year’s Champ Clark Honey Shuck Festival of Trees was a sight for holiday eyes. The free event returns Nov. 20 to 22 as part of Bowling Green’s Christmas in the Green.

Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, with extended viewing from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday.

“The businesses and organizations that decorate the trees do a wonderful job, and you can just feel the Christmas spirit radiating throughout the home when you visit,” said Festival Coordinator Julie Leverenz. “It’s an historic wonderland! And the trees are different each year, so folks come back annually for the spirited experience.”

The festival is in its third Christmas season, and Leverenz says she’s still “astounded by the creativity.” She promises “some very special treats” this year.

“At least one of our tree decorators is bringing her own private collection” or ornaments, Leverenz said. “It should be very special. And I love that some of our decorators have chosen to raise awareness of important community causes in their decorating approaches.”

Assembling a magical display “requires thoughtful planning and artful creativity” that takes time and effort, Leverenz noted.

“Depending on each decorator’s gifts and talents, it can be more or less challenging,” she said. “For most, it’s such fun.”

Already planning to decorate are Ann Layne Boutique, Elisha Koenig RE/MAX, PEO Chapter DA, Prairie’s Edge Garden Center, Worthington House, Community State Bank, Gypsy Soul, Rotary Club of Bowling Green, Jane Gartman, HomeBank, Parents as Teachers, Ann’s Anchor, Boland Chevrolet, Reindeer Roundup, City of Bowling Green, Pike County Courthouse and the Louisiana Area Historical Museum.

Others who are interested in putting up a tree – or those who want to volunteer at the event – may contact Leverenz at jlev.joyinthefog@gmail.com.

Decorating times are noon to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 22, 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 25, and noon to 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 2.

As in the past, visitors may choose their favorites at a cost of $1 per vote. Proceeds will be used for maintenance of the home.

Leverenz no longer serves on the Honey Shuck board, but isn’t about to give up her duties with the Festival of Trees.

“It’s such a fun project,” she said. “And the Champ Clark Home is a treasure for our community. It’s been wonderful in attracting visitors to Christmas in the Green for our local businesses, and it’s been terrific to have so many people visit Honey Shuck who’ve not had the chance before.”

So, with all that work, when does Leverenz put ornaments on her tree at home and how elaborate is it?

“I love decorating my tree, and am always inspired by the Honey Shuck decorators,” she said. “I generally decorate it right after Thanksgiving.”

 

CUTLINE FOR PHOTO:

Champ Clark Honey Shuck Board Member Kaylee Davis looks over a display at last year’s Festival of Trees. The 2025 event is Nov. 20 to 22 as part of Bowling Green’s Christmas in the Green.