Arbor Day

In Illinois, Arbor Day is celebrated on the last Friday of April every year. Along with the Parks & Recreation Department, the Citizens' Beautification Committee sponsors the City's recognition of Arbor Day by organizing a tree-planting ceremony at a selected Bloomington school. This ceremony is a requirement for the City to maintain its Tree City USA designation. The Mayor of Bloomington delivers an Arbor Day proclamation, a special Tree City USA flag is presented to the school, and a large specimen tree is planted at the school with the assistance of third-grade students. 

Beautification Awards
Annually, the Beautification Committee presents Beautification Awards to residential and non-residential properties in Bloomington that enhance the appearance of the City. The Committee has hosted the awards program each summer since 1977 to recognize property owners who are making a positive contribution to Bloomington’s appearance through landscaping or architecture. Nominations for both residential and non-residential categories are solicited from citizens, City Council members, and Committee members. Winners are presented with an award at a City Council meeting in late summer. Interested citizens may submit nominations directly to any Committee member.