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Kankakee, IL Holiday Tradition Returns: Nov. 10 Deadline Nears
Kankakee, IL – One of Kankakee County's longtime holiday traditions is preparing to return this December, but local nonprofit organizations hoping to participate have just one week left to register fo
By Cameron Hayes · 2026-11-03T21:19:00.348Z
Kankakee, IL – One of Kankakee County's longtime holiday traditions is preparing to return this December, but local nonprofit organizations hoping to participate have just one week left to register for the 48th Annual Gallery of Trees at the Kankakee County Museum.
This year's celebration will feature a patriotic twist, recognizing America's 250th anniversary through creatively decorated Christmas trees.
According to the Kankakee County Museum, nonprofit organizations are invited to participate in the annual decorating competition, with registration closing Tuesday, Nov. 10.
The theme for 2026 is "America the Beautiful: Celebrating 250 Years," encouraging participants to showcase the nation's history, culture and heritage through imaginative holiday displays.
The museum will provide an artificial Christmas tree for each participating organization.
A $60 nonrefundable entry donation is required, and prizes will be awarded to the top three decorated trees.
Participation is limited exclusively to nonprofit organizations.
Organizers also emphasized that decorating themes will be accepted on a first come, first served basis, and duplicate themes will not be permitted.
That means organizations interested in securing a particular design concept are encouraged to register before the deadline.
The 48th Annual Gallery of Trees is scheduled to begin Thursday, Dec. 3, at 9 a.m.
The event will take place at the Kankakee County Museum, located at 801 S. Eighth Ave. in Kankakee.
The annual celebration offers participating nonprofits an opportunity to showcase their creativity while contributing to a longstanding community holiday tradition.
This year's patriotic theme also gives organizations an opportunity to highlight American history and heritage through seasonal decorations.
The museum has not yet announced the winning prizes or additional public viewing details in its registration announcement.
Nonprofit organizations interested in participating can contact the Kankakee County Museum at 815 932 5279 .
Additional information is available at kankakeecountymuseum.com .
With the November 10 deadline approaching, organizers are encouraging eligible groups to register soon.
Source: Kankakee County Museum — Official 48th Annual Gallery of Trees registration announcement, Nov. 3, 2026.