Sure, the holidays are all fun and games — but if you celebrate Christmas, you know that sooner or later you have to deal with that "Night of the Living Dead" tree in the corner. But that doesn’t mean it’s dumpster-bound — instead, here's how to put an old tree to good use.

Drop-off recycling

Marion County has several sites where residents can drop off their live trees to be recycled into mulch. Drop-offs will be accepted until Wednesday, Jan. 31 from dawn until dusk. Be sure to double check that you’ve removed your tree stand, ornaments, lights, and other decor.

Note: Dropping off trees at locations that are not on the list is considered illegal dumping and is punishable by fines of up to $3,000.

Natural feeders

Give back to Mother Nature by making a natural bird feeder. Get creative with edible ornaments (think: orange-apple garlands and peanut butter pine cones), then set the tree out for birds to eat and take shelter. If your property includes a pond or lake, you can toss in the tree to make a natural reef, giving local fish a home.

Make your own mulch

Why not use winter's greenery to make your own yard and garden brighter in the springtime? You can shred your tree by renting a mulcher, or can spread fallen needles in your garden beds and lawn.