People around the world are familiar with the work and personality of Bob Ross, the American painter, art instructor and television host who in the ’80s and ’90s shared his love for painting and the environment with millions of viewers on the PBS show, “The Joy of Painting.” Ross was known for demonstrating seemingly simple brushstrokes that brought gorgeous landscapes – full of happy little trees – to life on the canvas.
How it began
The tree planting program – where seeds are placed in the care of inmates in a Michigan Department of Corrections education program – began in 2004, but grew into the “Happy Little Trees” program in 2019, when the Michigan DNR and Bob Ross Inc. partnered on programming to help raise awareness of tree planting and forest protection efforts in state parks.
The program was so successful in Michigan that their DNR was kind enough to invite other states – including Pennsylvania – to participate in the fun!
Happy Little Q&A
A 5k? Do I have to RUN? I don’t run!
No matter how you reach the finish line – walk, run or roll – you pick the pace and the place, anywhere outdoors!
Do I have to sign up for an organized event?
No! You can be completely independent (or join your friends and family) and do your own thing. Although you might want to keep an eye on our Calendar of Events to see what ideas we come up with for group activities. All you have to do is complete your 5K between April 19-27, 2025. (And, no, it is not a coincidence that Earth Day (April 22) and Arbor Day (April 25) fall between these dates!)
What do I get if I participate?
Everyone who participates gets a Happy Little T-shirt, a commemorative bib number, and finisher’s medal.
What’s the cost?
Registration is $36 and includes your swag and shipping.
We have a group who would like to register together. Any discounts?
Yes! Contact Michelle O’Kelly at the Michigan DNR for special instructions for a group of 10 or more.
What happens to the money?
So long as you remember to click “Pennsylvania” in the “select a state” dropdown, all race proceeds support tree planting and forest protection efforts in Pennsylvania state parks.
Could I plant a tree?
You just might! We traditionally only buy trees that are substantial in size so that they have a better chance of survival and as you might expect their cost is higher than a seedling. So your best bet is to keep an eye on our Calendar of Events for tree planting opportunities. Or drop us a line at [email protected] and let us know that you’d like to be kept informed when trees go into the ground.
Where do I sign up?
Check out the big blue box at the bottom of the page! (Register by April 1 to assure receipt of your swag before the event itself; registration closes April 15.)
