Last year’s winner of the virtual “Parade of Trees” was the Northeast Classic Car Museum. This year, the Chenango County Historical Society (CCHS) celebrates the return of this beloved holiday tradition as both an in-person event and an online virtual campaign. (Submitted photo)

NORWICH — The Chenango County Historical Society (CCHS) invites all community members to experience the wonder of the holiday season during the annual “Parade of Trees,” to be held both in person and virtually this year.

The celebration provides community organizations the opportunity to enter decorative interpretations of Chenango County’s culture, history, and heritage for entry into the “People’s Choice” campaign. Tree themes are often inspired by buildings, businesses, community scenes, festivals, landmarks, milestones, organizations, and parks that highlight memorable aspects of Chenango County.

In response to the global public health crisis, the “Parade of Trees” went virtual for two years, which provided an opportunity for increased community interaction. This year, CCHS is pleased to announce the return of the in-person “Parade of Trees” celebration, along with a virtual element to continue the online interest generated over the past few years.

Ahead of the “Parade of Trees” launch, local charitable organizations decorate evergreen trees highlighting the culture, history, and heritage of Chenango County. The CCHS Holiday Open House – scheduled for Dec. 4 this year – serves as the launch date for the “People’s Choice” contest, when both in-person and virtual visitors can vote for their favorite decorated tree by making a donation to that organization’s tree, in person or via the online virtual campaign.

Whichever organization’s tree accumulates the greatest combined total (both in person and virtually) at the campaign’s conclusion on Dec. 30 will be deemed the winner. The winning tree campaign’s earnings will be split evenly between the organization and CCHS. Donations from all other tree entries support the mission of CCHS.

“Our ‘Parade of Trees’ has become a highlight of the holiday season at CCHS,” said Joseph Fryc, operations manager. “Continuing this tradition both in person and virtually allows an unlimited number of supporters to participate, and we look forward to seeing all of the creative decorations displayed in celebration of our unique community heritage.”

The “People’s Choice” campaign extends the beloved “Parade of Trees” holiday tradition while simultaneously supporting CCHS and other local organizations. The White Store Church and Evergreen Cemetery, the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 189, and the Northeast Classic Car Museum have all received financial support as a result of having hosted winning entries in 2019, 2020, and 2021.

Charitable organizations that would like to participate in this year’s “Parade of Trees” should visit ChenangoHistorical.org/fourth-annual-parade-of-trees to register.

First established in 1939, CCHS is the primary organization dedicated to actively and comprehensively preserving the history of Chenango County. The area’s premier heritage museum, the organization celebrates local culture – unique traditions, noteworthy residents, and unusual stories of the region.

CCHS programs are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.

-Information provided by CCHS