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D56 BIRTHDAY PARTY
Thirty-One of our members were in attendance at the Silver Anniversary Celebration of D-56 in St Paul, MN last month, along with thousands of other
collectors from all around the country. The unique twist was that D-56, the celebrant, put on the party, and as only D-56 can do - they did it up BIG!!!
Things kicked off early in the week with a parade from Minneapolis of moving vans containing the massive village display to be erected in the main hall of
the party.
Friday events included a trip to Stillwater, MN, and a tour of Lowell Inn. Pictured is the table where the concept of doing Snow Village originated as
designers sat one wintry evening looking out at the twinkling lights on fallen snow. Other events for the day included a Dickens Tea, a trip on the
river in a Sternwheeler, a tour of a Christmas showcase house, D-56 Showroom tour and Cathedral of St. Paul tour.
Friday night a picnic in Rice Park headlined Lesley Gore.
Saturday events included the various tours again, and the opening of the ballroom for the Main
Event. This spectacular display consisted of 700 houses, 1500 accessories, 2500 trees, 400 pounds of grass and 700 pounds of
snow. D-56 artists demonstrated sculpting and painting of the houses,
artists Scott Enter, Kristie Jensen Pierro, Neilan Lund and Barbara Lund signed pieces, and various demonstrations and lectures were given throughout
the day.
In the display room artists were working on new pieces that will be released next year. An example is this little round New England barn.
Saturday night the Gala Banquet was held in the Minnesota History Center. The conclusion of the event included a fireworks display, with a large D-56
logo.
At Sunday's Closing Ceremonies they smashed some of the molds of the Anniversary pieces and distributed them to people. Some of the pieces will
be available at the October meeting.
For more pictures click here
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