Your complete Bay Area Christmas tree buying guide for cut-your-own or pre-cut Christmas trees
Is there anything like the smell of a freshly cut Christmas tree? We didn’t think so, either. This year, continue (or start) a tradition of picking up your family’s Christmas tree near San Francisco by buying from a local tree farm. From intimate family-owned farms to ones complete with holiday train rides and Santa visits, there’s one close to you no matter where you are in the Bay Area. Good to know: most Christmas tree farms open the day after Thanksgiving with a couple of them opening earlier in case you can’t wait to inhale that fresh fir scent.
Where to Buy Your Christmas Tree in the East Bay
Mocho Creek Trees
Head to this family-owned and operated pop-up Christmas tree lot on the banks of the Arroyo Mocho Creek on Mines Road. You can also purchase poinsettias, pinecones, locally-sourced mistletoe, along with other holiday-themed items. And don't forget your letters to Santa! They have a mailbox where you can drop your letters and are guaranteed to make it to the big guy. Good to Know: There's plenty of parking but no restrooms here so plan accordingly.
Christmas Tree Farm Opens: Nov. 23
5723 Mines Rd.
Livermore
Online: mochocreek.com
Castro Valley Christmas Tree Farm
Enjoy an outdoor experience in the East Bay hills at the Castro Valley Christmas Tree Farm, where the whole family, including the kids, are invited to help saw down the perfect tree. The farm has been open since 1969 for families looking for a “woodsy” experience in the East Bay.
Christmas Tree Farm Opens: Nov. 24; Weekends only
7001 Miller Rd.
Castro Valley
Online: cvtreefarm.com
Smith Family Farms
We love this spot to choose your perfect tree (sizes range from tiny tabletop trees to 11 footers) and then enjoy some hot cocoa, cider and popcorn by the firepit . Be sure to check out their country store for artisan gifts, ornaments and snacks. Wreaths and garlands available for purchase (or made to order) and they deliver trees locally within 10 miles. Check their website for details on how to access the farm from the Oakland side.
4430 Sellers Ave.
Brentwood
Online: smithfamilyfarm.com
Silveyville Christmas Tree Farm
This family-run business started in 1979 and has grown to over 15,000 trees with five different species to choose from and offers flocking as well as fire-retardant applications. Check out all the additional fun activities (some free, some cost a small fee) like visiting cute farm animals, duck feeding, a ride on Santa's sleigh ride, and a walk through the Christmas village.
Christmas Tree Farm Opens: Nov. 24; Closed on Tuesdays
6248 Silveyville Rd.
Dixon
Online: silveyvilletreefarm.com
Where to Buy Your Christmas Tree in Half Moon Bay
Lemos Farm
Lemos Farm is more than just a Christmas tree farm. It has been called a "festive holiday destination" and the site offers hay rides, pony rides, a "Playtown," petting zoo, and a train that winds through fields upon fields of Christmas trees for your choosing. You can pay per experience or purchase an unlimited pass.
Christmas Tree Farm Opens: December Farm Passes are on sale for Nov. 5-Dec. 17
12320 San Mateo Rd. (Hwy 92)
Half Moon Bay
Online: lemosfarm.com
Santa’s Tree Farm and Village
Since 1972, this tree farm has been quite a festive holiday destination. In addition to offering trees grown without herbicides or pesticides and over 480 acres worth of trees to choose from, you'll also find train rides, life-sized reindeer, and Santa's Village where you'll find carolers, handmade goodies in the Elves' Workshop.
Christmas Tree Farm Opens: Nov. 18-Dec. 23
78 Pilarcitos Creek Rd.
Half Moon Bay
Online: santastreefarm.com
Ski Lane Tree Farm
This local, family-owned farm has a great selection of pre-cut Noble Fir and Silver tip Christmas trees, fresh garlands, and wreaths. If you get lucky, you just might run into Sam's Chowdermobile for a savory bowl of chowder to boot!
Christmas Tree Farm Opens: Nov. 18
2750 Cabrillo Hwy N.
Half Moon Bay
Online: facebook.com
Where to Buy a Christmas Tree in the South Bay
Patchen Christmas Tree Farm
Families love to come to these Los Gatos spots as they have two farms with an excellent selection and room to spread out. Take a picture on the sleigh, visit with Santa at the gift shop, and enjoy bonfires (weather permitting). Worth noting: There are two locations (Old Town Farm & Rancho Farm) to choose from, just 0.75 miles apart.
Christmas Tree Farm Opens: Old Town Farm opens Nov. 18-Dec. 24; Rancho Farm opens Nov. 24-Dec. 24. Both are closed on Mondays.
22217 Old Santa Cruz Hwy.
Los Gatos
Online: patchencalifornia.com
Peacock Tree Farm
This quaint tree farm has been in operation since 1966. They grow White Fir, Douglas Fir, Grand Fir, Sequoia Redwood, Incense Cedar, Scotch Pine, as well as some Nobles Fir (both U-cut and pre-cut) and Blue Spruce in sizes 4-to-20 feet. They offer complimentary cider and snacks for sale.
17950 Mountain Charlie Rd.
Los Gatos
Online: peacocktreefarm.com
Battaglia Ranch Christmas Tree Farm
Located about 15 minutes south of San Jose, the farm has been in the Christmas tree biz for over 50 years. They offer both choose-and-cut trees, and a wide selection of pre-cut trees that come from their farm in Oregon. Look for the huge 35-foot-tall Santa Claus that greets motorists on the west side of the freeway as you travel on 101.
Christmas Tree Farm Opens: Nov. 18
13580 Murphy Ave.
San Martin
Online: battagliaranch.com
Skyline Ranch Tree Farm
Owned and operated by the same family who originally planted the trees in 1958, this U-cut tree farm invites you and your family to join theirs in making new and lasting memories. A pre-cut lot with Noble firs along with wreaths are also available.
Christmas Tree Farm Opens: Nov. 24
22246 CA-35
La Honda
Online: skylinetreefarm.com
Rancho Siempre Verde
If you're looking for a fun family experience, head over to Rancho Siempre Verde, this hidden gem just south of Half Moon Bay in Pescadero. For over 55 years, this family-owned farm has been sharing their magnificent U-cut Christmas trees, eclectic collection of swings and xylophones scattered throughout the property (not to mention all-you-can-eat toasted marshmallows) and sweeping Pacific Ocean views with a few lucky, in-the-know visitors. Worth noting: it's cash only, dogs are welcome and don't forget to pick a pear galette or walnut pie at neighboring Pie Ranch on your way out.
Christmas Tree Farm Opens: Select days starting Nov. 24
2250 Cabrillo Hwy. (Hwy. 1)
Año Nuevo State Reserve
Online: rsvtrees.com
Lone Star Tree Farm
A small but cozy tree farm offering White Fir and Douglas Fir Christmas trees, this family-owned and operated farm boasts several picnic tables so pack a lunch and make a day trip out of this outing. Don't miss purchasing some fresh wreaths and honey.
Christmas Tree Farm Opens: Nov. 24
20514 Gist Rd.
Los Gatos
Online: lonestartreefarm.com
Four Winds Christmas Trees
At this tree choose-and-cut tree farm, ANY tree is $80 (cash or check only)...even that 16-footer! They provide the saw, twine, and fun—you bring the family and muscle. Don't miss out on the free cider, cocoa, candy canes, and firewood on the weekends—available while supplies last. See website for details on getting to the farm for 2023.
Christmas Tree Farm Opens: Nov. 23
19679 Skyline Blvd.
Los Gatos
Online: four-winds-ranch.com
Ward Ranch
This tree farm offers choose-and-cut trees as well as pre-cut trees all for the same price from Oregon. Cash only.
Christmas Tree Farm Opens: Nov. 24
4820 Bonny Doon Rd.
Santa Cruz
Online: ward-ranch.com
Crest Ranch
California’s oldest cut-your-own Christmas tree farm, Crest Ranch offers nine different types of trees. Looking for a fragrant tree? Then you should pick the Arizona Cypress. Pre-cut trees are also available if that’s more your cup of tea. This spot is cash and check only—bring a little extra as there are drinks and food available for purchase on weekends.
Christmas Tree Farm Opens: Nov. 23
12200 Empire Grade
Santa Cruz
Online: crestranch.com
Where to Buy a Christmas Tree in the North Bay & Marin
Frosty Mountain Tree Farm
You'll find the traditional selection of trees at this Sebastopol farm, but the true holiday fun comes in the form of complimentary hayrides, a visit to the old red barn, and Santa's workshop. On weekends, visit Mrs. Claus' kitchen for fan-favorite popcorn and more sweet treats. And of course, there are always animals to visit, though the variety changes from year to year. Will it be sheep, lambs, llamas, or mini horses this year? The surprise is part of the fun. Print the coupon from their site for $3 off any tree.
Christmas Tree Farm Opens: Nov. 24
3600 Mariola Rd.
Sebastopol
Online: frostymountaintreefarm.com
Grandma Buddy's Christmas Trees
Located in Sebastopol, the picturesque barn and farm setting at Grandma Buddy's Christmas Trees has been used for numerous photo shoots, including Pottery Barn catalogs. The inside of the barn is stocked with crafts, ornaments and a mini-Christmas train village—a must-see at dusk. Families can wander through the farm for their main crop of Douglas Firs but they also grow other varieties such as White, Balsam, Grand and offer pre-cut Noble and Nordmann firs, as well as custom wreaths and garlands.
Christmas Tree Farm Opens: Nov. 24
8575 Graton Rd.
Sebastopol
Online: grandmastrees.com
Garlock Christmas Tree Farm
Garlock Christmas Tree Farm is a local favorite and has ten acres filled with six varieties of Christmas trees to choose from. There are free activities like tractor rides and picnic tables are scattered throughout the property, so pack a picnic (fresh local pastries, breakfast burritos, popcorn, and hot beverages are also offered at the snack bar). Save a few bucks by printing out their $3 coupon from the website. Don't miss Santa who will visit the farm Fri. Nov. 25 and then weekends through Dec.
Christmas Tree Farm Opens: Nov. 24
2275 Bloomfield Rd.
Sebastopol
Online: garlocktreefarm.com
Pochini's Family Farm
Families love Pochini's farm because it is family-run and they just get how it goes when you are cutting down your tree with your kids. The staff is super helpful and available to help you cut your tree, shake the needles out, bundle it up, and even strap it to the top of your car. They grow primarily Douglas Fir and White Fir and offer other varieties of pre-cut trees that come from Oregon. Open on Fri.-Sun., they typically run out of trees by mid-December—so plan ahead. Don't forget to stop by the shop to buy some holiday decor. When the weather gets cooler, they offer a fire pit and s'mores kits for sale. Insider Tip: Hike to the top of the property to see a fabulous view of Mount St. Helena.
Christmas Tree Farm Opens: Nov. 24; Fri.-Sun. until they sell out
18880 Hwy. 128
Calistoga
Online: pochinifamilyfarm.com
Little Hills Christmas Tree Farms 1&2
You'll love wandering around at this popular spot, Little Hills Christmas Tree Farms, in search of the perfect Monterey Pine, Douglas Fir or Sierra Redwood. Families love the old-fashioned Christmas vibe and the kids can meet the resident llamas, donkeys, alpacas and more. Bring along Fido as dogs are welcome! Save some money and print out the coupon for $3 off your tree.
Christmas Tree Farm Opens: Nov. 24
961 Chapman Ln.
Petaluma
Online: littlehillschristmastree.com
Larsen's Christmas Tree Farm
This Christmas tree farm started back in 1918 as a chicken farm and converted to Christmas trees in 1965. Here you'll find both choose-and-cut trees (Monterey Pine, Leyland Cypress, and Scotch Pine) as well as pre-cut trees (Noble, Turkish, and Douglas Fir) all for the same price. A sweet incentive to visit on the weekends? Youth groups typically host bake sales—yum!
Christmas Tree Farm Opens: Nov. 24
391 Marshall Ave.
Petaluma
Online: facebook.com
A Stop-Worthy Christmas Tree Farm on the Way Back from Tahoe
Crystal Creek Farm
Swinging back into town from a weekend in South Tahoe? This farm in Apple Hill has a large selection of groomed trees on over 20 acres of rolling hills that are perfect for exploring. Tree varieties include White Fir, Silver Swift Fir, Silver Tip, Douglas Fir, Noble Fir, Blue Spruce, Nordmann Fir, and Grand Fir. All trees are $95 (cash and check only) regardless of size. If you are lucky, they sometimes even have snow here!
Christmas Tree Farm Opens: Nov. 18
2019 Cable Rd.
Camino
Online: caminotrees.com
How to Recycle Your Christmas Tree
Of course, once the holidays are complete, you'll need to recycle your Christmas tree. Save our guide to recycling Christmas trees in SF & the Bay Area. Most townships start to offer recycling services the day after New Year's Day.
