If you are planning on decorating a fresh-cut Christmas tree this year, there are a number of farms not far from home to visit.
Horton Tree Farm in Whitchurch-Stouffville is one of the oldest cut-your-own farms in Ontario, having opened in 1964.
There, families can wander the fields in search of the perfect tree. Once you find it, you can cut it down yourself, preferably with your own saw but they do have some available to borrow. You can also warm up at a bonfire and even bring your own marshmallows for roasting.
The trees range in price from $75 to $140. Only cash is accepted. Horton Tree Farm is located at 5924 Slaters Rd. and is open Dec. 3, 4, 10, and 11 from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Not far from there is Vivian Plantation, at 16721 Hwy. #48 in Stouffville. The farm is open for the festive season every day until Christmas. Guests can choose and cut their own tree or pick from the pre-harvested selection. There will also be hot apple cider, hot chocolate, and bonfires to warm up with.
Vivian Plantation is open Monday to Friday, noon to 4:30 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Outside of York Region, you can also get a fresh Christmas tree from Hockley Valley Farm or Fandango Tree Farm both in Mono or Elliott Tree Farm in Hillsburgh.
In Durham, fresh Christmas trees can be found at Spademan Tree Farm in Port Perry or Prestonvale Tree Farm in Courtice.
According to York Durham Headwaters, where each of these farms are located, cutting down your own Christmas tree has many benefits. Not only are you supporting local but you are also making family memories and traditions and helping the environment as the trees are returned to the earth after they've been used.
