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Oh, Christmas Tree

Finding the perfect Christmas tree in Maine is the beginning of a one-of-a-kind holiday experience.

While it’s true that nobody’s perfect, there’s something about the holiday season that brings out the perfectionist in otherwise perfectly reasonable people. Especially people on a mission to procure a special holiday tree that’s been the centerpiece of yuletide tradition for centuries.

Given all that, it’s no wonder folks get all amped up in the search for the one tree that will outshine them all. It’s time to go big or go home. Which makes it a perfect time to go to Maine.

Not only was Maine an early influencer in forming a more perfect union, the elements of nature combine to grow a more perfect Christmas tree. Just ask our New England friends who go over the river and through the woods each year to find the Tannenbaum treasure of their dreams.

‘Tis The Season

You can find Christmas tree lots throughout Maine with beautiful pre-cut trees and wreaths. For a more hands-on experience, a lot of folks love the Choose & Cut way of getting their tree. And what’s not to love when you can take your sweet time at one of Maine’s family Christmas tree farms, selecting from the hundreds and even thousands of trees to find the one that has the height, shape and charm that’s perfect for you.

Choose & Cut is just how it sounds. The farm will equip you with a handsaw so you can harvest the tree of your choice. There’s also the option of “tagging” your tree so the farm can cut it for you. Handmade wreaths, Maine-made gifts and special holiday activities add extra cheer to your perfect Christmas tree package.

Maine’s family farms are part of an even bigger family circle, the Maine Christmas Tree Association (MCTA). One of the first things you’ll notice on the MCTA website is a bright green box counting down the days till Christmas. After that, you’ll find information on caring for a Maine Christmas tree, along with a list Christmas tree farms in Maine.

This year, make sure to check with individual farms for their hours and on any changes in prodecures or activities they've made due to COVID-19.

The Old Farm Christmas Place in Cape Elizabeth lives up to its name, with land that had been farmed continuously since the late 1700s. Today, they offer the classic Choose & Cut experience, with seven-year-old balsam firs. As the family is fond of saying, “Don’t just get a tree, build family memories to last a lifetime.” Create a custom wreath in their vintage post-and-beam shop. And jingle some bells with a wagon ride, including hot cocoa or cider along the way and a bonfire for roasting marshmallows.

Not far to the south is Holmes Tree Farm in Kennebunk, a family-owned and operated farm since 1742. Once you choose your tree, make sure to the check out the specialty wreaths and garlands. Then take in the warmth of the Country Gift Shop, and the hot, mulled cider brewing on the woodstove. There’s also a hamburger and hot dog wagon, and a cider donut station. There’s even a Santa Shack complete with the jolly old elf himself on weekends.

The story of Piper Mountain Christmas Tree Farm in Newburgh is a tale of two families. In 1978, the Corliss family started with a few balsams in their backyard. Things grew from there – into 30 acres of beautiful, award-winning trees. In 2017, Jim and Norma Corliss began handing operations over to Mac and Anne McCullen. The two families combine to bring you a one-of-a kind experience. Amidst the greenery, there’s another color associated with the farm. Blue. As in the 18-foot Christmas tree Jim and Norma presented to First Lady Laura Bush for the Blue Room of the White House.

Here are some additional farms you might want to consider:

• Balsam Ridge in Raymond
• Longmeadow in Hebron
• Staples in Windham