The San Marco Merchants Association (SMMA) has combined philanthropy and festivity with “Deck the Square,” its first annual holiday tree decorating contest.
During the first week of December, SMMA will install 10 holiday trees in San Marco Square, which will then be decorated, each by a different local business. Participating businesses are partnering with a neighborhood school or nonprofit organization for this contest.
Beginning Dec. 6, the community will be able to vote for their favorite tree by scanning the associated QR code. Each vote is $1 and people are able to cast more than one vote. The tree with the most will receive a plaque denoting their victory and the largest donation to their partner organization, however all partnering schools or nonprofits will receive a portion of the proceeds from their tree.
SMMA President Leah Roesler said she’s excited to see Deck the Square come to San Marco.
“It’s going to be a great way to bring extra life and holiday cheer into the square,” Roesler said.
The winner of Deck the Square will be announced on Friday, Dec. 20.