Manhattan Parks and Recreation will host a new holiday event on Dec. 3. Red Cedar Holiday Harvest gives families and individuals the opportunity to cut down and take home a holiday tree while helping restore the Park at Lee Mill Heights back to its original health.
The event will be 9 to 11:30 a.m. Dec. 3 at the Park at Lee Mill Heights. Those attending should use the entrance located near the intersection of Loma Ridge Drive and Miller Parkway. Individuals and families will be able to cut down a holiday tree and enjoy hot chocolate, coffee and cookies at a fire pit in the park.
“Red cedars are invasive to the native prairie that exists in the park,” said Casey Smithson, park superintendent. “We could go in and remove them, but this is a great opportunity for people to be able to take them home and enjoy them first.”
Participants in the Red Cedar Holiday Harvest are asked to bring a handsaw — no chainsaws or axes, please — and rope to tie the tree to their vehicle. Sturdy boots and work gloves are recommended. Volunteers will be available to assist with cutting, carrying and tying down the tree if needed. Cutting and care instructions for the tree will be given to all participants.
For more information about the event, visit MHKPRD.com/RedCedar or call Ryan McKee at 785-587-2768.