People for Trees, a non-profit native tree advocacy group that has been sponsoring tree festivals since 1999, will host “Tree Fair 2019” on Saturday, April 27 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Natural Awakenings of Sarasota is a proud sponsor of "Tree Fair 2019".

Hundreds of 3-gallon native trees (approx.6-8 feet tall) will be for sale for only $15 each: Florida Sweetgum, American Elm, Bald Cypress, Slash Pine, Southern Red Cedar, Red Maple, Dahoon Holly, Pignut Hickory. Alice White, chair of People for Trees since its inception in 1997, will lead several outside tree informational “walk/talks” about the trees that will be for sale so attendees can choose just the right trees for their yards.

Attendees can see the correct way to plant a tree at a demonstration plot and printed planting/watering instructions will be given with every tree purchase. Arborists from “Simply Trees” will be doing tree-climbing demonstrations throughout the morning, from 10 a.m.-12 noon, and be available to answer questions about tree pruning, maintaining a healthy tree, etc.

There will be a “Fairy Gathering at 11 a.m. led by “Rev. Faerie” Elaine Silver who will also provide the musical entertainment. Children are invited to wear their best fairy attire!  Rev. Faerie is an accomplished singer, songwriter, touring and recording artist with 20 CDs to date.

There will also be a “Fairy House” exhibit/contest with ribbons and a $50 cash prize awarded for “Best of Show” in each category: Adult Entry (ages 19 and up), Teen Entry (ages 13-18), Child Entry (12 and under). A Fairy House is a small structure where fairies can live in harmony with nature. Houses should be built using only natural materials (i.e. sticks, bark, pebbles, shells, pinecones, pine needles, acorns, etc.). Remember, fairies are careful not to harm anything that is growing.  Houses should be built upon a base so they can be transported easily.  They will be displayed outdoors within the natural areas of the festival. Children of all ages are invited to submit a Fairy House between 9 a.m.-10 a.m. in order to be displayed throughout the festival and to be eligible for judging. Judging will take place at 1 p.m. with awards at 1:30 p.m.

Location: North Port Community Education Center, 4940 Pan Am Blvd., North Port. For more information: Contact Alice White, 941-468-2486, email [email protected], or visit PeopleForTrees.com.