Celebrate Arbor Day in South Carolina!

Do you love trees? J. Sterling Morton certainly did! In 1872, he founded Arbor Day as a holiday dedicated to planting trees and fostering appreciation for their incredible contributions to our environment. More than 150 years later, Arbor Day continues to inspire individuals and communities worldwide to make a lasting impact on our planet through the simple yet profound act of planting trees.

Here in South Carolina, Arbor Day is celebrated on the first Friday of December—this year, December 6, 2024. It’s the perfect opportunity to show some love to our local ecosystems by planting native trees or participating in community Arbor Day events.

Why Celebrate Arbor Day?

Trees are the silent champions of our environment, offering countless benefits:

• Cleaner Air: Trees filter pollutants and produce oxygen.
• Better Water Quality: Root systems prevent soil erosion and filter water.
• Habitat for Wildlife: Trees provide food and shelter for countless species.
• Natural Beauty: They enhance our landscapes and provide shade, reducing energy costs.

By planting a tree or attending a local event, you contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future for South Carolina.

How to Celebrate

Here are a few ways you can join the Arbor Day festivities:

• Plant a Native Tree: Enhance your yard or community space by planting a tree that’s native to South Carolina. Learn how to plant a tree properly.
• Attend an Event: Check out local Arbor Day celebrations and tree giveaways. (See the list below!)
• Spread the Word: Share your Arbor Day activities on social media using #ArborDay, #PlantATree, and #SCForestry.

Local Arbor Day Events & Tree Giveaways

Participating in a community event is a great way to meet fellow tree enthusiasts and make a tangible impact. Visit the links below for details about Arbor Day happenings near you:

• Andrew Jackson State Park – Lancaster, SC 
• Beaufort Arbor Day Celebration – Beaufort, SC
• Lowcountry Tree Giveaway – Charleston, SC 
• Upstate Arbor Day Festival – Greenville, SC

A Legacy That Grows

No matter how you choose to celebrate, your support of Arbor Day contributes to a greener, healthier world for generations to come. As J. Sterling Morton once said, “Each generation takes the earth as trustees.” At SCDES, we couldn’t agree more. Let’s honor that trust by planting seeds of change—one tree at a time.

Learn More

• History of Arbor Day
• Ways to Celebrate Arbor Day

Happy Arbor Day, South Carolina! Let’s grow together.