Few memories are more magical than finding just the right Christmas tree for the season.
While there's no wrong way to go about it (except maybe dragging the family out in freezing weather to an open field and forgetting the saw), there are a few ways you can certainly have more fun. Four spots in the area promise a special experience for families on their hunt with pre-cut and choose-and-cut trees, along with special kids attractions, warming refreshments, and even Santa photos.
So get the family together, turn up the carols, and get ready to find the perfect symbol of the season.
Country Cove Christmas Tree Farm
This Rutherford County institution is dedicated to helping families make memories together at Christmas. Warm everyone up with hot cocoa, cider and maybe some treats from Kirby's Mini-Donut truck around the fire before heading out to the fields. Choose from White Pine, Turkish Fir, Carolina Sapphires, Leyland Cypress (great for allergy sufferers), Blue Spruce and Norway Spruce to cut yourself (bow saws and measuring poles are provided), or pick out a pre-cut Fraser Fir. Afterwards choose decorations for the rest of the house with handcrafted pieces from their Christmas Shop and Wreath Shop. Pre-cut trees range from 5 -12 feet, priced $73-$350; choose-and-cuts start at $48. Keep in mind that in order to guarantee a fresh-looking tree at Christmas, trees other than White Pine are not available to cut until December 6 weekend. Call ahead for questions on special varieties. Open select dates through December 22. Check their calendar for updated hours. 1189 Cut Off Road Murfreesboro. 615-848-8564.
Located in Woodbury, this destination spot is a little further from the city but well worth the drive. Families can make a day of their tree hunt, with porches for rocking, spaces for picnics, and plenty for children to do. Kids will love the tree house playscape complete with rope bridges and ziplines, as well as the craft room set up just for them to paint ornaments for their tree. Hayrides are offered Saturdays for $2 per person (max $10 per family). Choose from Colorado Blue Spruce, Canadian Hemlock, or White Pine trees among their choose-n-cut. No need to bring tools-- they provide a saw or chainsaw! Fir-trees are available as pre-cuts. Prices for choose-and-cuts range from $45-$95; pre-cut Firs from $70-$190. Military and law enforcement discounts are available. Open November 23- December 14, Sunday-Friday, 3- 8 p.m.; Saturdays 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Thanksgiving hours are Thursday and Friday 9 a.m.- 8 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m.- 8 p.m. 286 La Paloma Road Woodbury. 615-464-2472
Enjoy hot cocoa while you peruse luscious Fraser Firs from North Carolina at this sweet spot off of Hwy 96 in Murfreesboro. Trees run 6-10 feet tall, and fresh wreaths and garlands are also onsite for purchase. After you find your perfect tannenbaum, gather around a fire for some s'mores to sweeten the day. On Dec. 7 from 1-6 p.m., Santa Claus will make an appearance for photos. Bring your own camera, or get pro portraits with Rosy Ortiz Photography. Trees start at $79. Open Tuesday-Friday, 3-7 p.m., Saturdays 10 a.m.- 7 p.m., Sunday 12- 6 p.m. 282 Puckett Road. 615-403-8684.
Blackjack Farm Christmas Trees
It may not be fancy, but customers give rave reviews for this Bedford County tradition. For the unbeatable price of $40, families can choose any size White Pine tree to cut (bring your own tools, there are no pre-cuts). Chat with the friendly staff, have a cup of hot cocoa and bring a picnic for a merry time on the property after finding your tree. Open Friday- Sunday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. now through Christmas. 3331 Hwy 231 N. Shelbyville. 931-437-2537.
Article photo courtesy of Angie Blanton.
Laura Beth Payne is a writer mama and Murfreesboro native who lives in the Blackman community with her husband and two children. Follow her on Facebook and Instagram for more family fun in and around the city.
