School Application

Information & ExpectationsFirst-place bragging rights will be awarded for each of the following categories:

• Non-Profit Organizations
• School
• Downtown Merchant
• For-Profit Organizations

Trees will be judged on theme, uniqueness, creativity, and overall presentation.  An event map will be published online, directing visitors to your tree. Please note there will be 50 trees available in Stowe Park, and they will be filled on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Important Dates

• Application opens - October 17, 2024
• Application deadline - November 4, 2024 
• Decoration beginning date - Thursday, November 21, 2024
• Decoration deadline - Monday, December 2 (all trees decorated by 5:00 PM)
• Tree lighting ceremony (at City Hall) - Monday, December 2
• Decoration removal - December 30 - January 5
• Stowe Park tree removal - January 6, 2025
  • Any decorations remaining on the date of the tree removal will be discarded along with the tree

Rules and Criteria

• The City of Belmont will provide live trees & tree lights in Stowe Park
• Groups decorating a tree in Stowe Park must provide weatherproof decorations that are securely attached to the tree (trees may be subject to harsh weather and high winds)
• Public Works will activate Stowe Park lights on Monday, December 2nd
• For questions about lighting or electrical issues, please contact the Public Works Department at (704) 689-4703
• Tree themes must be family-friendly
• City of Belmont will provide a sign for each tree, including the organization/business name, tree theme, and logo.
• A tree theme and organization logo must be provided as part of this application.
• As this is a public display, the City of Belmont is not responsible for lost, stolen, and/or damaged items.
• Do not block walkways during the decoration process.
• Do not leave trash behind after decorating.
• Trees may not be moved under any circumstance.