There’s nothing like heading to a farm and picking out your own Christmas tree. Here are ten spots in New Jersey we recommend checking out; some only sell trees, while others make for a festive afternoon outing with snacks, hot chocolate and Christmas lights. (Since hours and availability vary by day and depending on weather, we recommend calling farms before visiting or checking out their social media pages.)
NORTH JERSEY
Giamarese Farm • East Brunswick
Through Sunday, December 24: Enjoy a free bag of pick-your-own apples with the purchase of your tree, while supplies last. Arrive to the farm one hour before closing time.
155 Fresh Ponds Road • 732-821-9494
Hidden Pond Tree Farm • Mendham
Through Saturday, December 23: To fuel up for your tree hunt, toast marshmallows over a bonfire (weather permitting) or head to the snack bar for hot chocolate and snacks. Families can purchase advance tickets online to ride the evening Christmas Train, an experience that includes a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
4 Westfield Road • 973-865-6362
Perfect Christmas Tree Farm • Phillipsburg
Through Saturday, December 23: These trees “hold their needles until the new year,” this farm guarantees. More than 15 varieties are available this year, including rare species not commonly grown in the Garden State. Peruse vintage and antique ornaments at the gift shop.
999 US-22 • 908-387-1225
Wyckoff’s Christmas Tree Farm • Belvidere
Until supplies last: Have you heard about Wyckoff’s colored trees, in startling shades of pink, purple, blue, black and white? (Tree purists need not fret—plenty of traditional firs and spruces are available, too.)
246 County Road • 519 908-475-4508
[RELATED: Where to See Holiday Light Shows in New Jersey]
CENTRAL JERSEY
Anne Ellen Christmas Tree Farm • Manalapan
Through Monday, January 1: Choose your tree, browse the generously stocked holiday-decor shop and, through Saturday, December 30, visit the Village at Anne Ellen, which is one of our favorite holiday light shows in the state.
114 Daum Road • 732-786-9277
Barclay’s Tree Farm • Cranbury
Until supplies last: Trees range from $75 to $150; cash and checks are accepted. Looking for a local gift for your out-of-town holiday visitors? Local honey is available for purchase.
35 Orchardside Drive • 609-799-1855
McLaughlin Tree Farm • Robbinsville
Through Saturday, December 23: Walk or take a hayride to find your tree, then head to the barn to defrost by the fire and enjoy a free cup of fresh hot chocolate or spiced cider. Kids can enjoy complimentary coloring books and candy canes. Also available for purchase: handmade wreaths, garland, grave blankets and fresh baked goods. Pets on leashes are welcome.
1312 Old York Road • 609-259-8122
SOUTH JERSEY
Ponderosa Tree Farm • Egg Harbor City
Through Thursday, December 21: Pick out a sustainably grown tree at this family-owned farm. Wreaths and garlands—and fresh garlic, to jazz up all your special holiday meals—are also available.
111 South Mannheim Avenue • 609-965-4646
Spruce Goose Christmas Tree Farm • Chesterfield
Through Sunday, December 17: Once you’ve chosen your tree, stop by the Spruce Goose Shop to browse Christmas decorations, ornaments, greenery and tree necessities like waterers and stands. You can also watch wreaths being made.
194 Bordentown-Georgetown Road • 609-298-2498
Yuletide Tree Farm • New Egypt
Through Saturday, December 23: A giant inflatable Frosty the Snowman welcomes visitors to this farm, where fives species of trees are available. PSA: No pets are allowed in the field.
138 Evergreen Road • 732-349-2705
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