Cortez is joining in the Durango-Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad’s Festival of Trees this holiday season, and a student-decorated tree is now posted up in the Colorado Welcome Center as part of the fundraiser for Community Connections.

This is the 16th annual Festival of Trees, and it will feature 35 trees and wreaths decorated and sponsored by businesses and families around the region.

The Cortez tree was provided by a local sponsor and decorated by students from the Children’s Kiva Montessori School with handmade paper ornaments reflecting themes of peace, justice, community and love.

Community Connections provides comprehensive supports for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Southwest Colorado. The nonprofit is headquartered in Durango but also operates out of two Cortez sites, and serves over 300 clients and families in Southwest Colorado every year.

The tree will be up at the Welcome Center in Cortez from Nov. 15 to Dec. 10, and families will be gathering gifts to be placed with the tree as part of the fundraiser.

The Festival of Trees will happen from Dec. 6-8 from 1-6 p.m. at 479 Main Ave. in Durango. It’s free and open to the public, with food and entertainment provided. Attendees can also vote for their favorite trees and wreaths, with categories including Best in Show, Best Theme, Kid’s Favorite, and more.

The festival also will feature a raffle for four nearby getaways: “Get Your Hot Springs On” Pagosa package, a “Rod & Reel/Rest & Relaxation” anglers package, “Canyon Country Here We Come” package and “All Aboard the Durango-Silverton Mining Heritage” package.

ealvero@the-journal.com