Festival Of Trees Is Back In Denver After 10-Year Hiatus

DENVER (CBS4) - It's that time of year again -- time to decorate the Christmas tree.

Trees made of feathers used to be the norm in America. It's just one fact you'll learn at this year's ArtReach Festival of Trees. From the classic one horse open sleigh to the brightly colored LED lights of today, after a 10-year hiatus the festival is back, featuring the history of holiday decor.

"Victorian decorations were often made out of scrap paper," designer Lonnie Hanzon said.

Hanzon says holiday decor is a telltale sign of each era, from the simplicity of the early 1900s to elaborate electronics of present day. Each display will eventually be auctioned off. Money raised goes to ArtReach Denver which is a nonprofit that aims to change lives through the arts.

PHOTO GALLERY: Festival Of Trees

"People that for some reason or another don't get access to the arts," Hanzon said.

In its first year back, Hanzon hopes it soon returns to its former glory where it previously ran for more than 25 years.

"It's really exciting to have this event back," he said. "I think a lot of people remembered it as a wonderful event and a way to get into the spirit for the holidays."

The Festival of Trees has plenty of events including a visit from Santa. It runs through Dec. 13 at the 40 West Arts District at 6300 West Colfax. CBS4 is a proud sponsor.

For more information, visit ArtReach Denver's website.