O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree!
Thy leaves are so unchanging
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree,
Thy leaves are so unchanging.
As this well-known Christmas carol goes on to say (in summary), the tree’s leaves are equally as green in the summer as they are in the winter — they never change. And ever since the warm, sunny, summer days were upon us, my family has been talking about Christmas and the tree we’re going to get this year — this, too, is unchanging.
This year is a magical one in my house, as my almost 2.5-year-old child has discovered, understands, and is beyond excited about everything that will be taking place on December 24 and 25. And what is the foundation of all that is to come in holiday preparations? The tree, of course!
This year, we’re going beyond a drive to Home Depot or the local American Legion to scope out the perfect tree for our house — one that we can select in a field and cut down ourselves, hopefully accompanied by a sleigh ride and a cup of hot cocoa. Here are a few suggestions for local Christmas tree farms in the Boston area if you’re looking for a similar festive experience this year.
*Please note that most of these farms only accept cash or checks (no credit cards). Coupons are available on some of the websites.
North
Ingraham Christmas Tree Farm
167 Nelson St., Georgetown, MA
This farm boasts cut-your-own Christmas trees, with saws provided and trees tied and baled. Winter wagon rides, Christmas wreaths, poinsettias, and decorations are also available for sale. Tree varieties include balsam fir, blue spruce, Canaan fir, white fir, Douglas fir, Fraser fir, and white pine.
Smolak Farms
315 S. Bradford St., North Andover, MA
Smolak offers a plethora of Christmas activities for the whole family, in addition to the cut-your-own-tree experience. Look forward to Santa’s workshop, a morning with Mrs. Claus, a teddy bear Christmas tea, cookie decorating, and crafts for kids. Choose-and-cut trees are $69 for all sizes; Fraser fir and Douglas fir varieties are offered. Pre-cut trees are also available for purchase, ranging from $49-120.
West
Bear’s Christmas Tree Farm
60 Milk St., Blackstone, MA
This family farm has “premium” choose-and-cut Fraser fir, balsam fir, Canaan fir, and blue spruce trees. Homemade cookies and warm apple cider are available as you search for the perfect tree.
Houde’s Christmas Tree Farm
169 Berlin Rd., Marlborough, MA
This 30-year-old family-run farm offers 37 acres of land, with views of Mount Wachusett. Santa makes appearances on the farm, and complimentary hot chocolate is offered. Tree varieties include Douglas fir, balsam fir, concolor fir, and several spruce and pine varieties. Cut-your-own trees run $8 per foot, and pre-cut trees range in price from $30-100.
South
Deerfield Tree Farm
25 Birch St., Millis, MA
This family-owned farm provides Christmas cheer as you’re searching for the perfect tree, with appearances by Santa, winter wagon rides, and complimentary hot cocoa. Saws are provided for cut-your-own trees, and precut trees are also available. Tree varieties include Fraser fir, Korean fir, Canaan fir, concolor fir, and balsam fir. Balsam and Fraser are $15 per foot, and spruce and Korean fir are $12 per foot. Precut trees range from $30-250.
Pakeen Farm
109 Elm St., Canton, MA
Inviting those searching for the perfect tree to visit their fields and barn, this farm nurtures each tree for more than eight years before selling it. Complimentary hot chocolate and a concession stand with fresh cider donuts are offered here. Tree varieties include balsam fir, Fraser fir, concolor fir, blue spruce, white spruce, and Norway spruce.
Good luck finding your perfect tree, and the happiest of holidays to you and yours!
