Most state & local government offices are closed Friday for the holiday.
(AP) _
Those heading to state and local government offices on Friday will find most of them closed to observe Arbor Day.
The holiday is meant to encourage the planting of and caring for trees. Many states around the country also recognize the holiday.
The tree-honoring occasion originated in Nebraska City in 1872, founded by Nebraska City native and U.S. Agriculture Secretary J. Sterling Morton. An estimated 1 million trees were planted that day.
Nebraska City residents will be extending its celebration intoSaturday and Sunday, with tree giveaways, a parade, craft show, chili cook-off and commemorative tree plantings.
