Holiday spirit

The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum kicks off "Making Spirits Bright" events Friday with a 20-foot-tall tree composed of more than 500 poinsettias in the Oswald Visitor Center. It's crowned with a sculpted glass tree-topper created by artist Craig Mitchell Smith. Other holiday events continuing through Jan. 5 include live music in the Great Hall, decorating demonstrations, Ladies Night Out, Holiday Teas, Auxiliary Holiday Sale, book signings and photos with Santa. Admission is $12 for ages 13 and up; free for members and ages 12 and under. 3675 Arboretum Dr., Chaska. For a schedule, visit www.arboretum.umn.edu or call 952-443-1400.

Going green

Not sure how to drape your railings, mantels, entry and dinner table with fresh greens? Gertens pros can help at free holiday decorating workshops, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Dec. 7, 5500 Blaine Av., Inver Grove Heights. To register, call 651-450-1501.

LYNN UNDERWOOD