Menlo Park-Atherton Christmas Tree Shopping Guide For 2020

Menlo Park-Atherton, CA — It should still be possible to take your family on the hunt for the perfect Christmas tree in 2020 — and most importantly, to do it safely, even as the ongoing coronavirus pandemic continues to worsen across the region.

Did you know that at least 25 million real Christmas trees are purchased each year across the U.S., and currently, 350 million are growing in all 50 states.? And during this unprecedented year, Christmas tree lots and choose-and-cut farms nationwide are taking precautions as the COVID-19 pandemic worsens to ensure locals can select their favorite tree with minimal risk to their health and safety.

In fact, the National Christmas Tree Association has created a special guide including recommendations and best practices for Christmas tree sellers to follow. The guide advises sellers to frequently sanitize items such as hand saws and tree cart handles, as well as countertops, restrooms and other areas. An onsite "COVID-19 coordinator" and personal protective equipment for employees are also being encouraged.

"It is likely that Christmas will have a greater significance for many in 2020 as we seek to offset the disruption of normalcy from COVID-19 with a family-oriented holiday experience," the association wrote on its website. "However, shopping for a Christmas tree, the iconic centerpiece of the holiday, will be a different experience this year as the risks from COVID-19 must be taken seriously."

Is a real Christmas tree is on your wish list this year? Here's a selection of quality local farms within driving distance of Menlo Park-Atherton.

• Webb Ranch Horses
• Pick Of The Patch Pumpkins & ABC Tree Farms
• Sea Scouts Christmas Trees - Temp. CLOSED
• Honey Bear Trees
• Spartans Tree Lot
• Nativity School Christmas Tree Lot

Want to get the most out of your real Christmas tree? It can take a bit of patience and practice. Here are a few things to remember, from the National Christmas Tree Association:

• What to know about fake Christmas trees
• Knowing the different types of real Christmas trees
• Tips on selecting a real tree
• Caring for your tree
• Christmas tree safety
• How to recycle your tree