In the opening scene of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, Clark Griswold – seeking out the perfect family Christmas tree – singing carols while driving down the highway with his unimpressed teens in the back seat. Upon arriving at the tree farm (after a series of unfortunate events), Clark and his family find, cut down, and literally drag home the tree that will become the centre of their family Christmas. While the Girswold’s hunt for the perfect tree is hilarious and unfortunate, there is something to be said for the treasured experience that comes with cutting down your own family Christmas tree.
Think you’re Griswold enough? Visit these local tree farms to find your family’s perfect tree.
Drysdale’s Tree Farm
6635 Simcoe County Rd. 56, Egbert | Drysdales.com
Mark your calendars! Starting November 20th, Drysdale’s Holiday Village will be open. Running Saturdays and Sundays from 10 to 4 p.m. visitors can cut their own Christmas tree, visit Santa, take a horse drawn wagon ride, visit the Evergreen Store, ride the train, sit by a bonfire – and do so much more! Not only is this a wonderful place to cut down your family tree, but there is entertainment for the whole family.
Orillia Fish and Game Club
510 Bass Lake Sideroad East, Oro-Medonte (close to the 9TH Line)
Theorilliafishandgameconservationclub.com
Looking for a way to give back this year? Visit the Orillia Fish and Game Club. Throughout the year, this not-for-profit prunes and shapes in anticipation of families coming out to find that perfect tree to adorn their homes at Christmas. There are several species of trees available including Scotch Pine, Spruce and Balsam Fir. Funds raised from Christmas tree sales are utilized to fund many of their club projects such as the bursaries which are awarded to deserving students who are entering post secondary education programs in the field of conservation.
Ayers Christmas Tree Farm
Line 10 N, Oro-Medonte | Ayerstreefarm.com
Founded in 1966, this small family-run farm has been serving Simcoe for three generations. Bundle up as you ride the tractor out to the fields to cut your own Christmas tree. Don’t have the chops? You can pick up one of their pre-cut trees instead. Stay awhile to enjoy a delicious food booth and some hot apple cider by the fire.
