Christmas tree farms that look like they came straight out of a Hallmark holiday movie

Christmas trees are at the heart of many Christmas traditions, from hanging decorations to unwrapping gifts. Even finding the perfect Christmas tree can be part of the holiday fun, especially since many farms practically become satellite offices of the North Pole each winter, complete with visits from Santa and hot chocolate stands.

While you can channel your inner Paul Bunyan and get a permit to cut down a tree in the forest, Christmas tree farms are a much simpler solution and are well stocked with fir, spruce, and pine (depending on the area you live in).

According to the National Christmas Tree Association, approximately 25 to 30 million real Christmas trees are sold each year in the United States, and this locator map can help you find a farm near you.

Options run the gamut from picked-and-cut farms to those with pre-cut trees to purchase—don’t forget to bring your tape measure to make sure any tree you fall in love with will find a home in your living room.

Read on to discover the charming Christmas tree farms across the country that are cute enough for a Hallmark holiday movie.

Big Jim Farms in Albuquerque, New Mexico

For a Southwestern-style Christmas, visit Big Jim Farms to pick out a tree, visit “Cowboy Santa” and even learn how to make tamales. The tractors are decorated with lights, the fixtures give the scene a warm glow, and you might even smell roasted red pepper and posole in the air.

Farm animals are part of a living nativity scene, and a cozy greenhouse is filled with poinsettias you can buy and there are plenty of cute vignettes for photos.

The farmers market is also full of New Mexico goodies, like chili peppers, ristras, winter squash, and wreaths.

Piper Mountain Christmas Tree Farm in Newburgh, Maine

After choosing and cutting a fragrant balsam fir from Piper Mountain Christmas Tree Farm, head to the big red barn to purchase homemade donuts, hot apple cider and a free candy cane while you shop for decorations.

The farm is known for its handmade wreaths and ships holiday decorations to all 50 states.

Visits from Santa, horse-drawn sleigh rides, and food trucks add to the experience.

Boyd Mountain Christmas Tree Farm in Waynesville, North Carolina

Enjoy your holiday Christmas tree cutting experience at Boyd Mountain Christmas Tree Farm in the Great Smoky Mountains.

Visitors can spend the night in one of nine log cabins and hike around the property’s trails before picking out a Fraser fir tree.

Covered Bridge Ranch in Montrose, Colorado

You’ll likely leave Covered Bridge Ranch with not only a Christmas tree, but a family photo that’s a strong contender for your annual holiday card.

The picturesque 300-acre ranch in the foothills of Colorado’s San Juan Mountains has a barn decorated with wreaths and a campfire for roasting marshmallows.

Christmas Ranch Tree Farm in Excelsior Springs, Missouri

This cute-as-can-be Christmas tree farm was actually the filming location for a holiday movie (“My Sweet Holiday,” which debuted on Lifetime in 2020).

Those purchasing a Christmas tree can cut down their own or find one among the pre-cut trees. Hot chocolate, hot apple cider, coffee and freshly baked cookies are served in the farm barn.

Santa Claus Farm and Village in Half Moon Bay, California

Half Moon Bay is known as a pumpkin town. But when the seasons change, area farms revolve around Christmas trees.

Take your pick of trees, from Douglas firs that have a lovely evergreen scent to white firs, a Christmas classic at Santa’s Tree Farm and Village. Train rides and story times with Mrs. Claus round out the fun.

East Wind Christmas Tree Farm in Marshall, Wisconsin

You can choose between pre-cut and cut-your-own trees at East Wind Christmas Tree Farm, but the most interesting Christmas trees here are the painted ones that come in a variety of colors. They look a lot like Seuss!

Santa’s Christmas Tree Farm in Cutchogue, New York

With 8,000 Douglas firs to choose from, you’re sure to find your perfect tree at Santa’s Christmas Tree Farm.

The farm offers photos with Santa and his cherry-red truck, and there is a “touchy-feely Santa” to visit in a quiet setting. For even more winter fun, take a few laps around the farm’s ice rink.

Thomley’s Christmas Tree Farm in Hattiesburg, Mississippi

Trips to the Thomley Christmas Tree Farm have been a family tradition for generations, as the farm has been in existence for more than five decades.

The farm grows Leyland Cypress, Virginia Pine, and Carolina Sapphire, as well as Fraser Fir from North Carolina and Virginia.

It also has an on-site glassblowing workshop so you can take home a tree and a beautiful decoration. You can also rent an Airbnb for a comfortable farm stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When do most Christmas tree farms open for the season?
Most farms open from mid-November through Thanksgiving weekend, but dates may vary depending on region and weather.

2. What types of Christmas trees are sold at American tree farms?
Common varieties include Fraser fir, blue spruce, Douglas fir, balsam fir, noble fir, Virginia pine, and Leyland cypress.

3. Should I cut my own tree or choose a pre-cut one?
Although self-cut trees are the freshest and make for fun photo ops, pre-cut trees are more practical. Very often, tree farms have all the equipment you need to cut down a tree, from saws to string and tarpaulin.

4. How long will a real Christmas tree last?
With adequate watering, most last 4 to 6 weeks. When reaching for a tree, gently pull on the branch. Few needles should fall! You also want to keep your tree away from heat vents and direct sunlight at home to help it last longer.

5. What should I bring to a Christmas tree farm?
A measuring tape, gloves, a vehicle cover or tarpaulin, string (if they don’t provide it), and cash in case small vendors don’t accept cards.

6. Are pets allowed on Christmas tree farms?
Many farms are pet-friendly for well-behaved dogs, but policies vary, so check the farm’s website beforehand.

7. How much do real Christmas trees cost?
Prices generally range between $60 and $150 depending on size, type and region. But if you’re looking for a huge 20-foot tree, expect to pay upwards of $500. On the other hand, you can buy smaller trees under 4 feet for around $20 to $25.