The first Arbor Day took place on April 10, 1872 it was the brainchild of Julius Sterling Morton, a Nebraska journalist and politician. Throughout his long and productive career, Morton worked to improve agricultural techniques, but his most important legacy is Arbor Day.

Trees produce life giving oxygen, give us building materials and fuel, serve as windbreaks and can help cut down air conditioning costs in the summer.  Julius Sterling Morton knew the importance of trees and used his resources as a journalist and politician to educate.

For this reason, representatives from the Arlington Heights Park District, the Village of Arlington Heights and students from Westgate Elementary School will once again honor the legacy of Julius Sterling Morton, the founder of Arbor Day, on Friday, April 29th at Pioneer Park in Arlington Heights. Pioneer Park is located at 500 S. Fernandez Ave. in Arlington Heights. 

This year’s Arbor Day celebration will begin with refreshments at 9:30 am.  The festivities, including a special performance by the students of Westgate Elementary School, a tree planting ceremony, and Arbor Day speeches that will begin at 10:00 am.

The Arbor Day celebration will conclude with the announcement of the winner of the Arlington Arbor Day Artists, Tree Drawing Contest. The Arlington Arbor Day Artist’s Tree Drawing Contest is open to all children pre-k to 6th grade students in Arlington Heights.  Children are encouraged to show us their creativity and artistic ability.  Three age categories will be judged by staff members in the Park District Parks & Planning and Marketing Departments.  Three lucky winners will receive fun prizes. For complete contest rules and to download an entry form, please visit the Arbor Day Event page.  Entries may be dropped off at Pioneer, Camelot or the Arlington  Ridge Community Centers before April 15, 2020.