Oak Park-River Forest Christmas Tree Shopping Guide For 2020

Oak Park-River Forest, IL — It may still be possible to take your family on the hunt for the perfect Christmas tree this year — and to do it safely, even as the ongoing coronavirus pandemic continues to worsen across the region.

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 despite these unprecedented times, the tree market is still up and running this year. Christmas tree lots and choose-and-cut farms nationwide are taking precautions as COVID-19 cases rise to ensure locals can take home their favorite tree with minimal risk to their health and safety.

In fact, the National Christmas Tree Association has released a special guide containing recommendations and best practices for Christmas tree sellers to follow. Sellers are advised to frequently sanitize items such as hand saws and tree cart handles, as well as countertops, restrooms and other areas.

"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 said in its guide. "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."

Maximum head counts and social-distancing rules are also being encouraged at the farms.

If a real Christmas tree is on your holiday wish list in 2020, here is a selection of some of our favorite Christmas tree farms within driving distance of Oak Park-River Forest.

• Poor Bob's Tree Land
• See Portfolio
• L & M Tree Farm
• Ivy's Christmas Trees
• Svendsen's Christmas Trees
• L & M Tree Farm
• Poor Bob's Tree Land
• Murphy's Christmas Trees
• Puckerville Farms
• City Tree Chicago Christmas Tree Delivery

Getting the most out of your real Christmas tree takes a bit of patience and practice. Here are a few tips to remember, courtesy of 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