This seasonal exhibit is a favorite for many, bringing local businesses, organizations, and groups together as they deck the halls of the iconic Leo B. Stuhr Building!

New in 2024, we are offering an added feature to the Fantasy of Trees to engage the community and give back during this festive time of year. The winner of the People’s Choice award will receive a $500 donation in their name to the non-profit organization of their choice! This award will be funded in part by a $5 entry fee for each tree in this year’s exhibit. The People’s Choice award will be decided by votes from the public, which will be collected between the exhibit opening on November 29 and December 15. All trees are eligible to win the award, which will be announced at the participant’s open house on December 19.

Here’s how to participate:

• Register your tree by Friday, November 8 and pay the $5 entry fee. Registration can be completed online (scroll to the bottom of this page) or by calling us at (308) 385-5316.
• Visit Stuhr Museum to set up your tree between November 18 – 27 during business hours. Stuhr Museum will be on winter hours during this exhibit, open 7 days a week, 10 am – 4 pm.  Please note, the museum will close at 3 p.m. on November 27, and all decorations must be completed by that time. (Don’t forget to bring a sign to identify your organization!)
• (Optional) Attend the Participants’ Open House on December 19 from 5-7 p.m. where we will reveal the winners in the categories listed below, including the new $500 People’s Choice award donated to the nonprofit organization of the winner’s choice, enjoy some tasty holiday treats, and admire the Fantasy of Trees!
• Visit Stuhr Museum to take down your tree between January 6 – 14 during business hours, 10 am – 4 pm. All trees must be removed by no later than 4 p.m. on January 14.

Rules:

• All entries must be accompanied by a $5 registration fee.
• Trees must be set up and taken down during the dates and times listed above.
• All trees must be artificial and no taller than 8 feet.
• Each tree must have a tree skirt and a sign to identify your organization.
• Electricity is available for Christmas tree lights. Please be sure to label any extension cords or loose parts.
• No food items, loose glitter, or organic items may be used to decorate.
• The theme is up to you – the more creative, the more fun! See the categories below for inspiration.
• For any questions, please contact Kylie Luth at kluth@stuhrmuseum.org or call (308) 385-5316.

Categories for awards:

Important Dates:

• Friday, November 8: Registration Deadline
• Monday, November 18- Wednesday, November 27: Tree Set-up, 10 am – 4 pm (Note – Museum closes at 3 pm on Wednesday, November 27)
• Friday, November 29 – Sunday, January 5, 2025: Fantasy of Trees Exhibit open to the public, 10 am – 4 pm (Note – Museum closes at 3 pm on December 31)
• Thursday, December 19: Participants’ Open House, 5 – 7 p.m.
• Monday, January 6 – Tuesday, January 14: Tree Take-down, 10 am – 4 pm