FESTIVAL OF THE WREATHS RETURNS AT THE ARLINGTON HEIGHTS HISTORICAL MUSEUM NOVEMBER 22 THROUGH DECEMBER 4

Last year's first FOTW proved to be a successful fundraiser for the Arlington Heights Historical Museum and returns for its second year.

"We were gratified by the community's response with their wreath creations and donations," said Betsy Kmiecik, of Arlington Heights, a former Arlington Heights Historical Society Board president, and chair of the Festival of the Wreaths Steering Committee. "Almost 80 beautiful wreaths were donated with fun themes," she said. "All of the wreaths were bid on and sold. We raised over $5,000 in wreath sales, and we're building on that success." Proceeds from wreath donations were used to fund materials and supplies for Museum collections and exhibits.

Those who wish to create and donate a wreath for the event, need to register their wreath by Friday, October 21. Completed wreaths can be delivered to the Museum from 4pm to 7pm Thursday, November 3 and from 10am to 2pm on Friday, November 4.

"We'd really like to see more wreaths of all kinds, but especially from kids and their families," said Kmiecik. "We've added a category called Calling All Kids and we're promoting this in various outreach efforts.

The Festival of the Wreaths will be open to the public for viewing and silent auction bidding on Tuesday, November 22 through Sunday, December 4. Prizes will be awarded in various categories, such as Most Representative of Arlington Heights. For more information, go to www.ahmuseum.org or call 847-255-1225.