Smokey the Bear celebrates his 60th birthday at Arbor Day with friends from Troop 371,

The City of Santa Clarita hosted its annual Arbor Day festivities at Central Park on May 6. The event is meant to educate residents about the benefits of trees as part of the world-recognized Arbor Day holiday.

Mayor Laurene Weste accepted the Tree City USA award on behalf of the city, a prestigious honor bestowed by the National Arbor Day Foundation given to cities that consistently have a viable tree management plan and program.

The city also gave away 1,000 free trees and free tree mulch to those in attendance. Volunteers organized tree planting activities throughout the park, as well.

"Our goal for Arbor Day is to show residents how important trees are to our community and to give them the knowledge they need to care for their environment. We need everyone's help to maintain the city's great reputation as a clean and beautiful place to live," said Rober Sartain, arborist/supervisor for the city.