With Thanksgiving now behind us, it’s the ideal time to pick out a tree for the Christmas season. For many of us, no artificial tree will do — we need that fresh pine smell and outdoorsy essence. Plus, making a day out of cutting down the family Christmas tree can create a memorable holiday tradition. The North Fork has about a half dozen tree farms you’ll want to consider for all your holiday tree shopping needs.
Darts Christmas Tree Farm
Those looking for more dramatic, vibrant tree colors than even blue spruces can offer, may want to venture into the Magic Color Forest at Darts. These fantastical Fraser firs have been reportedly transformed by magic, resulting in wild colors like bubble gum pink, snowfall white, sugar plum purple, deep sea azure and more. This holiday fantasy is open daily, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. 2355 Main Road, Southold. 631-369-1300, dartschristmastreefarm.com
Fink’s Country Farm
This Wading River farm has been offering a wide selection of Christmas trees for about five decades, and its’s still going strong. Visitors can choose from Douglas, Fraser, concolor (white) and noble fir trees, as well as wreaths and roping. Get there at 9 a.m. when they open each day to beat the rush. Guests may even see Santa on weekend afternoon through December 19. 6242 Middle Country Road, Wading River. 631-886-2272, finksfarm.com
Lewin Farms
Head into Lewin Farms’ Baiting Hollow Nursery for the perfect tree — either pre-cut or ready to be. These trees include Douglas fir, blue spruce and Norway spruce ranging in size from 1–15 feet tall, though all cost the same $45 (cash only). Lucky visitors may even find a large white pine amid the greens and blues. 812 Sound Avenue, Calverton. 631-929-4327, lewinfarm.com
Santa’s Christmas Tree Farm
Peruse over 8,000 Douglas firs, each standing about 6–7 feet tall with appealing shape and density. Santa’s little helpers will assist as you cut down your chosen tree and tie it to your vehicle at no extra charge. Be sure to call ahead for info on Santa photo-ops, ice skating and more holiday fun. The 28-acre farm and Christmas shop are open daily 10 a.m.–5 p.m. 30105 Main Road, Cutchogue. 631-735-9242, santaschristmastreefarm.com
Shamrock Christmas Tree Farm
Family owned and operated since 1987, this farm offers a solid mix of tree options for the family to choose from: Douglas firs in the field, standing 5–9 feet tall; pre-cut Fraser firs, 7–12 feet tall; 4-foot potted spruce trees; 5-foot balled trees; and 4-foot Charlie Brown trees. They also offer customized tabletop centerpieces, wreaths and other decorations, plus gifts, wine and more. They’re open daily, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. 20685 Main Road, Mattituck. 631-298-4619, shamrockchristmastreefarm.com
Zuhoski Farms
This 70-acre farm includes 15 acres devoted to choice Christmas trees, ready to cut. They’ve also got wreaths, roping, kissing balls, and maybe even visits from Santa on weekend afternoons through December 12. They’re open 9:30 a.m. to dusk, seven days a week. 11825 Oregon Road, Cutchogue. 631-734-5036, zuhoskitreefarm.com
This story first appeared on DansPapers.com.
For more guides about things to do on Long Island, visit longislandpress.com/category/everything-long-island.
Sign up for Long Island Press’ email newsletters here. Sign up for home delivery of Long Island Press here. Sign up for discounts by becoming a Long Island Press community partner here.