Whether choosing and cutting your own Christmas tree is a decades-old ritual in your family or a new addition to your holiday tradition, consult our guide to find a location in Fairfield County, CT.
Before you visit any of these Christmas tree farm, here are some tips - or reminders - to help you and your loved ones get the most out of the experience.
1. First, make sure to dress in warm, practical clothing when visiting any of these locations - a sturdy pair of shoes is an essential accessory for every member of the family.
2. Before you pack the gang into the car, call or visit the Web site of your intended destination to check that weather conditions are favorable and that the type of tree you're looking for is still available-this becomes more important as it gets closer to Christmas when the snow really starts to fly and the tree supply has been picked over (some locations may sell out of trees before their listed close date).
3. Most farms allow dogs, but call to check before you pack up your pet.
4. Check to see if the tools you'll need, like a saw and netting to pack up your tree, are provided. Most farms provide you with tools and optional assistance in cutting down and carrying your tree, but it's best to be prepared. If you have to bring your own tools, opt for a handsaw and steer clear of axes or chainsaws, as they're usually not allowed.
5. When you've chosen your tree, cut it as close to the ground as possible so you'll have enough trunk left to cut it a second time at home. This second cut allows the tree to soak up more water, which makes for a healthier, greener tree come Christmas morning.
6. Once your tree is placed in your home, keep the room temperature a bit lower, around 65 degrees (or at least keep the tree away from direct heat), to help keep it looking and smelling fresh throughout the holiday season.
7. Water your tree daily. Fresh trees tend to be very thirsty, so check your tree regularly to make sure the base is always covered with water.
8. Enjoy!
Click here for our complete 2009 Guide
For other region-specific guides, visit: Southeast New York; Long Island; New Jersey
WHERE TO CUT YOUR OWN TREE IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY, CT
Busy Acres Tree Farm
548 Quassapaug Road, Woodberry
203-263-4786; www.busyacrestreefarm.com
Open November 27 through December, weekdays 12-3:30pm, weekends 9am-3:30pm. Tree carts available to help transport your tree. Handmade wreaths also available.
Everett's Corner Tree Farm
136 Sherwood Road, Easton
203-268-2508; www.everettscorner.com
Open December 5-6 and 12-13, 9am-dusk. Tools and assistance provided.
Fairview Tree Farm
486 Walnut Tree Hill Road, Shelton
203-944-9090; www.fairviewtreefarm.com
Precut trees also available. Tools and assistance provided. Hand decorated wreaths also available. Call for hours.
Jones Family Farm
606 Walnut Tree Road, Monroe
203-929-8425; www.jonesfamilyfarm.com
Open November 19 through December daily, 9am- 5:30pm. Arrive before 4pm if you plan on cutting your own with a provided saw. Recommended to bring your own tarp to bundle your tree for the journey home. Holiday decorations and traditional crafts and ornaments for sale. Refreshments available.
Maple Row Tree Farm
538 North Park Avenue, Easton
203-445-1618; www.mrfarm.com
Open daily through December, 9am- 4:30pm. Hayrides, refreshments, and gift store on weekends. Precut trees also available.
Rose's Berry Farm, LLC
295 Matson Hill Road, South Glastonbury
860-633-7467; www.rosesberryfarm.com
Open weekends November 14-November 23, 10am-4pm; open November 27-December 24, Wednesday-Friday 10am-4pm, weekends 9am-4:30pm (fields closed to new customers at 4pm). Christmas shop with wreaths, gifts, and baked goods.
Staib Tree Farm
49 Walnut Hill Road, Bethel
203-748-1610
Open for tagging through November. Open for cut-your-own Thanksgiving weekend through December 20, weekdays 12-4pm, weekends 10am-4pm.
