Presented by the Everson Members’ Council.
December 2–16, 2023
Experience the magic of the season at the Everson!
The Everson is proud to present the 2023 Festival of Trees & Light, a beloved Central New York holiday tradition.
Now in its 38th year, the Festival will offer more performances and activities than ever!
A wide variety of trees, wreaths, and other seasonal items will be available for purchase, and the Museum Gift Shop will have plenty of selections for your holiday gift-giving. Plan on making the Festival of Trees & Light part of your holiday season.
Pre-lit decorated trees of all sizes
Decorated wreaths
Unique seasonal and winter-inspired décor items, representing Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, New Years, winter solstice, or any seasonal celebration
Artisanal individual gift items and ornaments
Café
by Dremer Restaurant Group
Handhelds:
Turkey Meatball & Cranberry Chutney on Toasted Ciabatta $7
Waldorf Chicken Salad on Toasted Croissant Roll $8
Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap $6
Cold Sandwiches (sandwich, wrap or pita) (ham or turkey) $4
Kids:
Gingerbread Person Grilled Cheese $4
Holiday Tree-Shaped Pepperoni Pizza $4
Soup:
Tomato Bisque $4
Italian Wedding $4
Sweets:
Assorted Sugar Cookie Cut Outs $3
Giant Gingerbread Person Cookie $4
Drinks:
Dani’s Hot Cho with Whipped Cream and Crushed Candy Cane $3
Recess Hot Coffee $2
Assorted Canned Sodas $2
Bottled Water $2
Breakfast:
Egg & Cheese on Texas toast or Croissant. With ham, sausage, turkey $4.50
The café is located on the main level across from the Member’s Council Gallery
2023 Festival of Trees & Light
Week 1
Saturday, December 2, 2023
Winter Art Studio
Open Hours
The Winter Art Studio invites families to engage in self-led, holiday-themed art activities, creating treasured festive memories together. Whether your artistic passions lie in painting, drawing, sculpting, or crafting, there's an activity that suits every member of your family.
Lana Goldman Piano Studio
10:00am
Auditorium
Evergreen Wreath-Making
10:00am-12:00pm, Education Center
$20 Members | $25 Non-Members
Register for Evergreen Wreath-Making
Gather the whole family and join us for a heartwarming day of creativity and holiday spirit. This hands-on art activity is perfect for kids and their parents, allowing everyone to explore their artistic talents while crafting beautiful wreaths using fragrant evergreen branches. Sponsored by Carol Watson Greenhouse.
La Joven Guardia del Teatro y la Danza Latina, Inc
12:00pm, Hosmer Auditorium
CMC Dance Company
1:30pm & 2:30pm, Hosmer Auditorium
Clay Snowmen
1:00-5:00pm
Embrace the holiday spirit with our family-friendly clay snowman sculpting workshop! Join us for a delightful hands-on experience that's perfect for kids and parents alike. Under the guidance of our skilled instructors, you'll mold and shape your very own clay snowmen, complete with scarves, hats, and whimsical features. This creative and heartwarming activity is a fantastic way to bond with loved ones, express your artistic side, and bring a touch of winter wonderland into your home.
Carrie Manolakos
7:00pm
Auditorium
The Everson Museum of Art is proud to present singer, actress, songwriter, voice coach—and Syracuse native—Carrie Manolakos, for a one-night-only performance on December 2, 2023 at the Everson Museum of Art.
Carrie starred as Sophie in Mamma Mia! on Broadway, and as Elphaba in the second national tour of Wicked. Film and soundtrack credits include The Greatest Showman, Incredibles 2, Dear Evan Hansen, Croods: A New Age, and more.
Sunday, December 3, 2023
Creative Gift-Wrapping
10:00am - 12:00pm
Join us in crafting your very own, one-of-a-kind wrapping paper using basic printmaking techniques. Not only will your gifts be beautifully wrapped, but they'll carry the heartfelt touch of your family's artistic expression. This activity is a wonderful way to add a touch of warmth and originality to your holiday presents.
Sudha Raj Dance Studio
12:00pm
Auditorium
Winter Animal Water-Coloring
1:00-5:00pm
Watch as your kids' imaginations come alive on the canvas, as they create watercolor paintings of intricate, icy scenes filled with penguins sliding on icebergs or fluffy polar bears frolicking in the snow.
Tawn Marie Dance Company
2:00pm & 3:00pm
Auditorium
Gem Duo
2:00pm
Sculpture Court
Week 2
Thursday, December 5, 2024
Winter Art Studio - Sponsored by This is CNY
11:00am - 8:00pm, Education Center
The Winter Art Studio invites families to engage in self-led, holiday-themed art activities, creating treasured festive memories together. Whether your artistic passions lie in painting, drawing, sculpting, or crafting, there's an activity that suits every member of your family.
Wellwood Chamber Orchestra
11:00am, Sculpture Court
ITC Instrumental Groups
12:00pm, Sculpture Court
Pom-pom & Felt Wreaths Workshop
6:00pm, Education Center
CONCERT EVENT: An Evening with Ryan Quinn
6:30pm, Hosmer Auditorium
Ryan Quinn, from Clinton, NY, is a vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, and performer most known for his four-chair-turning performance on Season 10 of NBC’s “The Voice.”
Ryan will be playing both original music and his arrangements of songs that have impacted him, musically and otherwise, over the course of his life. With a near four-octave vocal range and a wide array of musical influences, Ryan’s live show is dynamic, eclectic, and unpredictable.
Friday, December 6, 2024
Winter Art Studio - Sponsored by This is CNY
11:00am - 8:00pm, Education Center
The Winter Art Studio invites families to engage in self-led, holiday-themed art activities, creating treasured festive memories together. Whether your artistic passions lie in painting, drawing, sculpting, or crafting, there's an activity that suits every member of your family.
Chestnut Hill Middle School Orchestra
11:15am, Sculture Court
Evening Reception with Mike Vincetore
5:45pm, Sculpture Court
Embossed Tin Foil Decorations Workshop
6:00pm, Education Center
FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT – The Polar Express
6:00pm, Hosmer Auditorium
Bring the whole family to the Everson for a cozy evening of magic and holiday cheer with a special screening of The Polar Express! Enjoy this heartwarming classic on the big screen in the Museum’s Hosmer Auditorium. Based on the beloved children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg, the film follows a young boy on a magical train ride to the North Pole, where he rediscovers the wonder and joy of believing.
Before the film, take time to explore the Festival of Trees & Light, a dazzling display of beautifully decorated trees, handmade ornaments, and festive lights throughout the Museum. This beloved tradition makes the evening even more magical and offers something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
Saturday, December 7, 2024
Winter Art Studio - Sponsored by This is CNY
10:00am - 5:00pm, Education Center
The Winter Art Studio invites families to engage in self-led, holiday-themed art activities, creating treasured festive memories together. Whether your artistic passions lie in painting, drawing, sculpting, or crafting, there's an activity that suits every member of your family.
Lana Goldman Piano Studio
10:00am, Hosmer Auditorium
Northwinds Woodwinds Quintet
10:00am, Sculpture Court
“Pia the Pinetree” Book Reading
11:00am, Mather Court
The Music School of CNY Guitar Ensemble
11:30am, Sculpture Court
Kwanzaa Celebration
12:00pm-4:00pm, Education Center
Gather your family for a joyous Kwanzaa-themed art activity at the Everson that celebrates the essence of this meaningful cultural holiday. Through fun and engaging craft projects, participants will explore and honor the seven principles of Kwanzaa, including unity, self-determination, and collective work.
This workshop is designed to inspire creativity and bring families together while teaching important values and traditions in a welcoming and festive environment. All materials will be provided, making it easy for everyone to join in the celebration!
Brig Juice Holiday Brass
12:00pm, Hosmer Auditorium
The Bright Forever: Megan Hook
1:00pm, Sculpture Court
CMC Dance Company
1:45pm & 2:45pm, Hosmer Auditorium
Sprinkle Mosaic Class (tickets sold separately)
2:00pm
Join us for a sweet and creative workshop where sprinkles aren’t just for desserts—they’re for art! In this hands-on session, you’ll create a colorful mosaic using a variety of sprinkles and learn different techniques for applying and designing with these tiny treats.
Whether you want to follow a guided sample image or craft an original design, this workshop is perfect for all ages and skill levels. Along the way, we’ll also share some fun facts about the history and origins of sprinkles and their sweet connection to ice cream.
Bring your creativity and appetite for fun—this unique workshop is sure to delight!
Rock Voices Community Choir
4:00pm, Sculpture Court
Sudha Raj Indian Dance School
4:00pm, Hosmer Auditorium
Sunday, December 8, 2024
Winter Art Studio - Sponsored by This is CNY
10:00am - 5:00pm, Education Center
The Winter Art Studio invites families to engage in self-led, holiday-themed art activities, creating treasured festive memories together. Whether your artistic passions lie in painting, drawing, sculpting, or crafting, there's an activity that suits every member of your family.
Hanukkah Art Studio
10:30am-12:30pm, Education Center
Celebrate the joy of Hanukkah with a special drop-in art-making workshop at the Everson! Shape and decorate your own unique menorah, also known as a chanukiah, the nine-branch candelabra central to Hanukkah celebrations. Families can also craft and personalize dreidels, the spinning tops used in the traditional Hanukkah game, or create custom candle holders if they don’t celebrate Hanukkah. All creations will be fired in our kiln, making them durable and ready for the season’s festivities.
This event is generously sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Central New York and welcomes participants of all backgrounds to join the fun.
Holiday Storytelling
10:15am, Mather Court
Holiday Storytelling with the Library
11:00am, Mather Court
Meet Mrs. Claus
12:00-2:00pm, Santa Workshop
Syracuse Pops Chorus
12:15pm, Hosmer Auditorium
Joe Davoli Fiddle Studio
1:00pm, Sculpture Court
The Bright Forever: Megan Hook
2:15pm, Sculpture Court
Tawn Marie Dance Studio
2:00pm & 3:00pm, Hosmer Auditorium
Northern Lights Watercolor Workshop
2:30pm, Education Center
Experience the magic of the Northern Lights through watercolor art at this hands-on workshop at the Everson! With gentle guidance from our skilled staff, you’ll create beautiful, winter-themed landscape scenes inspired by the natural wonder of the aurora borealis.
All materials are provided, including watercolor paints, paper, rubbing alcohol, and salt—everything you need to experiment with texture and bring your vision to life. Whether you’re an experienced artist or just starting out, this workshop is perfect for anyone looking to explore their creativity.
Your finished artwork will make a stunning decorative piece or a thoughtful holiday gift for someone special!
Week 3
Wednesday, December 11, 2024
Winter Art Studio - Sponsored by This is CNY
11:00am - 5:00pm, Education Center
The Winter Art Studio invites families to engage in self-led, holiday-themed art activities, creating treasured festive memories together. Whether your artistic passions lie in painting, drawing, sculpting, or crafting, there's an activity that suits every member of your family.
“Pia the Pinetree” Book Reading
11:00am, Mather Court
Blodgett Band & Orchestra
11:15am, Sculpture Court
Durgee Jr High Orchestra
11:15am, Hosmer Auditorium
Northern Lights Watercolor Workshop
12:00pm, Education Center
Experience the magic of the Northern Lights through watercolor art at this hands-on workshop at the Everson! With gentle guidance from our skilled staff, you’ll create beautiful, winter-themed landscape scenes inspired by the natural wonder of the aurora borealis.
All materials are provided, including watercolor paints, paper, rubbing alcohol, and salt—everything you need to experiment with texture and bring your vision to life. Whether you’re an experienced artist or just starting out, this workshop is perfect for anyone looking to explore their creativity.
Your finished artwork will make a stunning decorative piece or a thoughtful holiday gift for someone special!
Solvay HS Jazz Band
12:15pm, Hosmer Auditorium
Chittenango HS Chamber Orchestra
12:15pm, Sculpture Court
ESM HS Chamber Choir
1:00pm, Sculpture Court
FM High School Ensembles
3:00pm, Sculpture Court
Thursday, December 12, 2024
Winter Art Studio - Sponsored by This is CNY
11:00am - 8:00pm, Education Center
The Winter Art Studio invites families to engage in self-led, holiday-themed art activities, creating treasured festive memories together. Whether your artistic passions lie in painting, drawing, sculpting, or crafting, there's an activity that suits every member of your family.
Liverpool MS Choir
11:00am, Sculture Court
Henninger HS Jazz Band & Choir
11:15am, Hosmer Auditorium
Frazer Band and Orchestra
11:45am, Sculpture Court
Baldwinsville HS Orchestra
12:00pm, Hosmer Auditorium
Baldwinsville HS Brass Ensembles
12:30pm, Hosmer Auditorium
Strathmore Brass Quintet
3:30pm, Sculpture Court
SCSD Modern Orchestra
4:45pm, Sculpture Court
Evening Reception: The Smart Set Jazz Quartet
5:45pm, Sculpture Court
Gingerbread Luminaries (tickets sold separately)
6:00pm, Education Center
Get into the holiday spirit with this fun and creative drop-in workshop at the Everson! Design and decorate your very own gingerbread house out of clay, perfect for holding a tea light, candle, or incense stick.
With guidance from our friendly staff, you’ll:
- Shape and personalize your miniature house using provided tools and patterns.
- Learn basic techniques for crafting and decorating with clay.
- Have your masterpiece fired in our kiln, making it durable, waterproof, and washable.
Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just looking for a festive activity, this workshop is perfect for all skill levels. Drop in, create, and take home a unique holiday treasure!
Art & Wine Workshop (tickets sold separately)
6:00pm
Do you love art? Do you love wine? Join Certified Sommelier Cha McCoy, founder of The Communion, for a one-of-a-kind workshop and tasting event. This exclusive evening pairs fine wines with masterpieces from the Everson Museum’s permanent collection.
What to Expect:
- A Mediterranean Journey: Warm up your winter by exploring wines from the sunny Mediterranean while learning about the role of clay and ceramics in wine—from ancient Greek vessels to modern winemaking.
- Artful Pairings: Discover the fascinating connections between art and wine with insights from Cha McCoy and Everson Museum Curator Steffi Chappell.
- Wine Education: Learn from one of today’s leading voices in the wine industry as Cha shares her expertise in tasting, pairing, and innovation.
This unforgettable evening combines the elegance of wine with the creativity of art, offering a unique sensory experience that will leave you inspired and enriched.
Friday, December 13, 2024
Winter Art Studio - Sponsored by This is CNY
11:00am - 8:00pm, Education Center
The Winter Art Studio invites families to engage in self-led, holiday-themed art activities, creating treasured festive memories together. Whether your artistic passions lie in painting, drawing, sculpting, or crafting, there's an activity that suits every member of your family.
Onondaga Central School Sr High Chorus
11:00am, Sculpture Court
Solvay Jr. High Jazz Band
11:30am, Sculpture Court
Skaneateles HS Orchestra, HS band, Women’s Chorus
11:30pm, Hosmer Auditorium
Porter Spirit Chorus
12:30pm, Sculpture Court
Lafayette HS Band & Chorus
12:30pm, Hosmer Auditorium
Sentinel A Cappella Group
1:30pm, Sculpture Court
Sova Violin & Viola Studio
5:00pm, Sculpture Court
Evening Reception: Performance 4 a Cause
5:45pm, Sculpture Court
Charcuterie workshop (tickets sold separately)
6:00pm
Get ready to wow your holiday guests with a beautifully styled charcuterie board! Join us for a festive, hands-on workshop led by Anna Sofer of She Fancy, where you’ll learn the art of crafting a stunning grazing board that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
What You’ll Learn:
- Smart Shopping Tips: Choose the best meats, cheeses, and accompaniments without breaking the bank.
- Styling Secrets: Arrange your board like a pro with creative techniques that elevate your presentation.
- Flavor Balance: Master the perfect mix of textures, colors, and tastes.
- Festive Finishing Touches: Add holiday garnishes and create a centerpiece your guests will rave about.
Whether you’re hosting a cozy family gathering or a glamorous holiday party, this workshop will leave you with the skills, confidence, and inspiration to create a charcuterie masterpiece that takes center stage at any event.
What to Bring: Just your creativity and holiday cheer! All materials, ingredients, and tools will be provided.
Tissue Paper Stained Glass Workshop
6:00pm, Education Center
Saturday, December 14, 2024
Winter Art Studio - Sponsored by This is CNY
10:00am - 5:00pm
The Winter Art Studio invites families to engage in self-led, holiday-themed art activities, creating treasured festive memories together. Whether your artistic passions lie in painting, drawing, sculpting, or crafting, there's an activity that suits every member of your family.
The Music School of CNY Guitar Ensemble
10:30am, Sculpture Court
Holiday Storytelling
10:30am, Mather Court
The Ballet & Dance center
12:oopm, Hosmer Auditorium
The Flute Students of Lana Stafford
12:oopm, Sculpture Court
Meet Mrs. Claus!
12:00pm-2:00pm, Santa's Worshop
Diwali Art Studio
1:00pm-4:00pm, Education Center
SU Main Squeeze & Orange Appeal A capella groups
1:30pm, Sculpture Court
Sprinkle Mosaic Class (tickets sold separately)
2:00pm
Join us for a sweet and creative workshop where sprinkles aren’t just for desserts—they’re for art! In this hands-on session, you’ll create a colorful mosaic using a variety of sprinkles and learn different techniques for applying and designing with these tiny treats.
Whether you want to follow a guided sample image or craft an original design, this workshop is perfect for all ages and skill levels. Along the way, we’ll also share some fun facts about the history and origins of sprinkles and their sweet connection to ice cream.
Bring your creativity and appetite for fun—this unique workshop is sure to delight!
Anjani Dance Academy
3:00pm, Hosmer Auditorium
Sunday, December 15, 2024
Winter Art Studio - Sponsored by This is CNY
10:00am - 5:00pm, Education Center
The Winter Art Studio invites families to engage in self-led, holiday-themed art activities, creating treasured festive memories together. Whether your artistic passions lie in painting, drawing, sculpting, or crafting, there's an activity that suits every member of your family.
Holiday Storytelling
10:15am, Mather Court
Holiday Storytime w/ the library
11:00am
Pia the Pinetree Book reading
11:00am, Mather Court
CNY Ballet
12:00pm, Hosmer Auditorium
Tassel Tree Workshop
12:oopm, Education Center
Harmony Katz
12:00pm, Sculpture Court
Katz Meow
12:45pm, Sculpture Court
Salt City New Horizons Orchestra
1:00pm, Hosmer Auditorium
Megan Hook Sound Bath
1:00pm, Mather Court
Dr. Tom Dooley Choraliers
1:20pm, Sculpture Court
How the Festival of Trees & Light Began
On December 4, 1985, the Festival of Trees debuted at the Everson.
Click here to read the history of the Festival of Trees & Light
Thank you, sponsors!
Thank you, contributors!
Jennifer Klestinez, Ethan Allen, Patti Pultorak, Jamie Owens, Haylor, Freyer and Coon, Roberta Ripberger, Agatha Wallen, Wegmans DeWitt, Joe Dixie, Patricia Humpleby, Minoa Elementary, Matthew Fowler, YMCA of Central New York, Judith Brown-Roenbeck, Baltimore Woods Nature Center, CNY Branch of the National League of American Pen Women, Linda Eastman, Isabelle and Raphael Vaverchak, Girl Scouts Troop 60611, Cooperating Real Estate Professionals, Donna Lynn Jordan, Golden Fleece Spinners’ Society, Prevention Network CNY, DeRuyter Central School, Caitlin Devendorf, The Herrick Family, Keplinger Freeman Associates, Lake Effect Stitches, Jaime Taylor, Manlius Pebble Hill School, Aneta Zafonte, Stickley, Heather Schroeder Larsson and Petter Larsson, CNY Lyme & Tick-Borne Disease Alliance, Girl Scouts, Your Comfortable Home, Donna Oppedisano, Vicinos Brick & Brew, Duke Epolito, Ken Pitcher, Girl Scout Troop 60067, The Martin Family, North Syracuse Community Builders Club, Mary Gotham, Lynne Romeiser Logan, Janet Burman, Doug Burman, Karen Young, Jennifer Snyder & MarySue Brost, Bond, Schoeneck & King, Perri Hogan, The Varrenti Family, Sarah Anson-Ordon, The Grimes Family, Mary Vertigan, National ART Honor Society at Henninger High School, ARISE, Onondaga Art Explorers, Empire DM Inc., Cheryl Matt, Syracuse Federation of Women’s Clubs, Members’ Council, Patti L Chappell, Barry and Pattie Miller, Morgan Gaffney, Tobey Fischer, Rosemary Krupka, Karen Jean Smith, Maria Wiklund FiberWorks, Carol Watson, Terry Grabowski, Diana Godfrey, Linda Blanding, Jewish Federation of Central NY, Jewish Federation Next Gen Group, Sam Pomeranz, Jewish Community Center, Syracuse Hebrew Day School, Meg Aufmuth, Syracuse Sounds of Music Assn, Mary Pat Spiegel, CNY Art Guild, Barbara Conte-Gaugel, Noel Keith, Steffi Chappell, Amy Wilson, Mixed Methods, Barbara Barnell, Karen Bishop, Michelle DaRin, MacKenzie-Childs, Brenda Schaar
Thank you to the 2023 Members’ Council for their work organizing this year’s festival.
The Everson Museum of Art Members’ Council was organized by eight women in 1961, and in the 63 years since, men and women have contributed significantly to the goals and mission of the Everson Museum of Art.
The purpose of Members’ Council has not changed throughout its long history: provide volunteer and financial support to Museum activities and projects.
Although there have been many and varied projects and activities reflecting changing times, there is none more beloved than the Festival of Trees and Light—a CNY holiday tradition since 1985!
