ASHLAND, KY. - It has become as much a part of the local holiday landscape as Christmas parades and hot cocoa.

The 19th annual Festival of Trees at the Paramount Arts Center in Ashland, Ky., will open to the public Saturday.

"We have a lot more entries than last year," Paramount Arts Center Director Kathy Timmons said. "We have twice as many miniature trees. The tree-topper category is new this year.

"…This is truly a community event. It was created by and for the community. Over 500 decorators are involved, more than that if you count all the school children."

Among those entries are numerous ones from Lawrence County. The Coal Grove Freezette tree has a patriotic theme. Dawson-Bryant High School entered more than a half a dozen gingerbread houses. Rock Hill Elementary's display is complete with Santa Claus and Ironton Middle School's tree has a safari theme.

Timmons said she appreciates those who are taking part in any way in the annual event. "It's nice to know the community supports us, stands behind us and is willing to sacrifice to make the festival a success."