Looking For A Christmas Tree Near East Hampton-Portland? Here's A Local Guide

East Hampton-Portland, CT — It may still be possible to take your family on the hunt for the perfect Christmas tree this holiday season — and most importantly, to do it safely, even as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic continues to worsen across the region.

At least 25 million real Christmas trees are purchased each year across America, and currently, 350 million are growing in all 50 U.S. states. And despite these unprecedented times, the practice will continue in 2020. Christmas tree lots and choose-and-cut farms nationwide are taking precautions as coronavirus cases rise to ensure shoppers can select their perfect tree with minimal risk to their health and safety.

Tree lot operators and choose-and-cut farms "must protect the health and safety of their employees, provide customers with the confidence they need so they can enjoy selecting a tree without risk and demonstrate to state and local officials they are conducting business responsibly," the the National Christmas Tree Association wrote on its website this year.

In fact, the association has developed a new guide including recommendations and best practices for Christmas tree providers to follow, including frequently sanitizing items such as hand saws and tree cart handles, as well as countertops, restrooms and other areas.

Is a real Christmas tree is on your wish list this year? Here's a selection of quality tree farms within driving distance of East Hampton-Portland.

• Quail Creek Ranch Christmas Trees
• The Little Forest
• Vandermost Christmas Tree Farm
• Plumper Pumpkin Patch and Tree Farm
• Sauvie Island Farms
• Lone Owl Farm
• Cornell Farm
• Peninsula Optimist Club Memorial Christmas Tree Lot
• Chad's Christmas Trees
• Zurbrugg Farms Christmas Trees

Getting the most out of your real Christmas tree can take some patience, practice and good advice. Here are a few things to note, 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