By Jennifer Ersalesi
Photos submitted by Steve Addeo
This upcoming Saturday, April 30th the Shade Tree Commission will present the TreeFest, which will be sponsored by Rutherford BCB’s Bank. TreeFest will be a great opportunity for community groups to gather in the park in celebration of Arbor Day. This is Rutherford spoke with Steve Addeo about the return of this festival.
TIR: Unfortunately, Rutherford’s Treefest had to be postponed for the last couple of years due to the pandemic. Now that it is back, what can those who attend this event expect?
Steve Addeo: It's always a family-friendly festival over Arbor Day weekend in one of Rutherford's premier parks, Lincoln Park, in celebration of the 'Borough of Trees'. Visitors can expect to hear some great live music, Rutherford's finest Engine Company 3 Fire and Rescue manning the BBQ grill serving up some favorites, other food options will be on hand as well including Coffee and fresh Pastries from one of Rutherford's newest businesses Steven's Café. Surrounding the inside of the park will be craft and toy vendors, educational booths, entertainment for the kids, and the Rutherford Shade Tree Commission will be handing out free tree saplings to plant and keep our canopy growing. Rutherford's Green team will be on hand spreading environmental awareness and sustainability activities. For the adults, we will have Rutherford's PBA along with the Rutherford Wine Shoppe providing the beer and wine garden. So what a fun way to spend the afternoon with the family, strolling through the park and enjoying our tree festival. We would love to see you all and help us with our celebration!
TIR: When was the Arbor Day Craft and Food Festival (Treefest) first organized?
SA: The Treefest was initially introduced and organized by the Rutherford Shade Tree Commission in 2016. We missed the past two years because of the pandemic but we are back this year with our 4th annual festival.
TIR: What are your goals and hopes for this event?
SA: Well our biggest hope is for lots of sunshine, great weather, and a big turnout of guests. Our goal is to spread awareness of the importance and continuing beautification of Rutherford's Tree canopy.
TIR: Why is this Festival at Lincoln Park so important for the community?
SA: We all had a rough past couple of years so this celebration is a great way to get back outside, show community support, and feel good about our town and all its charm.
The Shade Tree Commission's mission statement.
The Borough of Rutherford Shade Tree Commission promotes the conservation and stewardship of trees throughout the Borough by advising and working with Borough officials, the Department of Public Works, and the Shade Tree Division regarding the planting, care, and maintenance of public property trees. It is our heritage, responsibility, and commitment for a long-term investment in the beauty, health, and character of our tree canopy throughout Rutherford.
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