Gather your friends for a morning of holiday fun and decorating as University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners in Winnebago County host their annual ‘Horticulture for the Holidays’ workshop on Saturday, December 11 from 9 a.m. to noon at Lockwood Park in the Cookhouse (5201 Safford Rd., Rockford). Participants will complete two make-and-take projects that demonstrate how to incorporate natural elements, such as pinecones, evergreens and vines (which are often found in your backyard), into seasonal celebrations and gifts for giving.

This year you will create a Mason Jar Oil Candle and a Centerpiece Wreath—each of these projects will make beautiful stand-alone items to give or keep, but they also pair well together for a gorgeous holiday display for your dining table. The Mason Jar Oil Candle is a combination of beautiful pinecones, evergreen sprigs, cinnamon sticks and essential oils—perfect for illuminating your home during the dark and cold winter months. With the Centerpiece Wreath, Winnebago County Master Gardeners are going to show you how to dispel the myth that wreaths should only be hung on doors! You’ll create a stunning centerpiece by using a grapevine wreath and adding fresh evergreens along with festive accessories like ribbon, pinecones, and berries.

The program fee of $25 includes all workshop materials. Pre-registration and payment are required to secure your spot. Please register by Friday, Dec. 3 to ensure we have enough materials.  For more information or to register, visit go.illinois.edu/jsw or call the Winnebago County Extension Office at 815-986-4357.