Where to Buy Christmas Trees on Cape Cod

Displaying evergreen trees in the home at winter solstice pre-dates Christianity and, therefore, Christmas. In these times, people would bring boughs into their homes to keep evil spirits away or to remind themselves that all the green plants would rejuvenate in the coming months.

The traditional Christmas tree got its start in Germany during the 16th century, while the first record of a Christmas tree in the United States occurred in Pennsylvania in the 1830s. By the 1890s, these trees were commonplace in homes all over the United States, with electricity later making it possible to illuminate them throughout the holiday season.

Today, the Christmas tree remains an essential holiday tradition and something that brings families together every year. The following is a list of places where you can buy Christmas trees on Cape Cod in 2018.

Bunker Tree Farm

With Coonamessett Bog Christmas Tree Farm scaling back its operations and not planting any additional trees, Bunker Tree Farm is the only fully-functional cut-your-own-tree facility on Cape Cod. The idea is that you can show up at the farm, walk around and choose a tree, and then cut it yourself. You can also tag a tree a few weeks before you chop it, ensuring it stays fresh for Christmas.

Bunker Tree Farm, which is located in West Falmouth, opens for the season on Thanksgiving Weekend, giving you plenty of time to find the perfect tree. All trees are $50, no matter the size and species, and there are saws and twine on-site, so you don't have to worry about bringing your own.

One thing to remember about buying a tree grown on Cape Cod is that it takes about ten years for trees to reach seven feet in height and most trees at Bunker Tree Farm are under six feet tall. The lack of growth came about due to drought-like conditions in previous years, in addition to the soil on the Cape not being ideal for fir or spruce trees. As a result, if you're in need of a tall tree, it's a good idea to tag it as early as possible in the season.

Agway of Cape Cod

Agway of Cape Cod is garden center with a selection of Balsam, Fraser, and Concolor fir trees from which to choose, with some being as tall as 12 feet. They've been in the Christmas tree business for over 25 years, and have the knowledge to direct you towards the perfect tree for your home.

Perhaps the best aspect of buying a tree from Agway of Cape Cod is that the staff will carry the tree to your car and secure it for you, leaving you with one less thing to worry about. This retailer also has a selection of artificial trees and hand-framed wreaths, making it a one-stop shop for Christmas decore. There are Agway of Cape Cod locations in Chatham, Orleans, and South Dennis,

Coonamessett Farm

At Coonamessett Farm in East Falmouth, you'll have a wide selection of Christmas trees, from large to small, from which to choose. There's also apple cider and hot chocolate available, and hand-decorated wreaths are for sale. You can order a custom wreath if desired, and even help make it.

Coonamessett Farm is a small business that sells memberships to its customers. Those who pick up a Christmas tree here are encouraged to invest in a membership, which includes discounts on items available at the farm throughout the year and access to special events.

Cape Abilities Farm

Buying your tree at Cape Abilities Farm in Dennis means supporting a great cause, as the farm provides unique work opportunities to Cape Cod residents with disabilities. The farm promotes sustainable farming practices and brings in balsam and Fraser fir trees between two and 12 feet in height throughout the Christmas season. Poinsettias and gift baskets are also available.

Cape Abilities makes it easy to get your trees, as well, since they are open every day between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM. While other farms in the area are only open on the weekends, you'll have plenty of time to get to Cape Abilities because of these extended hours.

Cob Webb Farm

Cob Webb Farm in West Barnstable sells Christmas trees every Saturday and Sunday starting on Thanksgiving Weekend. The trees start at $25, with small, medium, large, and extra large versions available. There are also wreaths and bows sold throughout the holiday season.

Once at the farm, you can enjoy some apple cider, donuts, and popcorn or take a wagon ride. All proceeds from the wagon rides go to St. Jude's Hospital, so you'll be supporting a good cause at the same time. If you're around at dusk, Cob Webb Farm has a bonfire each weekend night, as well.

Supporting Local Businesses

This list offers few ideas on where to pick up a Christmas tree this holiday season, but there are options available all over the Cape. Most of the retailers mentioned here are small local businesses, however, and offer more than just a place to buy a tree, as they include some sort of special experience or service for you and your family.

When the time comes to choose a Christmas tree this year, have a look at these local Cape Cod businesses, as not only are you sure to find the perfect tree, but you’ll be supporting local businesses and charities when making your purchase.