The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
by Becky Smith - The Quill
La Harpe- Mrs, Maxine Hilton (left) and Mrs. Arlynn Hitz (right) have been chosen to be the first selected Grand Marshals for the 2019 La Harpe Country Christmas honoring the 20th Annual Festival of Trees.
Arlynn and Maxine initiated the "Festival of Trees" in 1999 as they were discussing ideas for something the community could enjoy during the La Harpe Christmas event.
They decided on organizing a "Festival of Trees" and began by asking local businesses to display a tree for $10. They then offered participation to area churches and children at no cost.
The event has grown with businesses, various groups and organizations, as well as individuals, displaying their creative themed trees.
Arlynn says the event has consistently had 30-40 trees each year. "That's a lot of trees over the years", states Hitz, "over 600 trees that have been put up and taken down through the years."
It's always fun to see the different themed trees and you can vote for your favorite tree with winners for each category receiving a special ribbon.
The ladies expressed their appreciation for being selected for grand marshals and for the 20 years of participants who have helped made the event such a success.