Where To Buy A Christmas Tree In The Manasquan-Belmar Area

Manasquan-Belmar, NJ — It might still be possible to take your family on the hunt for the perfect Christmas tree this holiday season — and to do it safely, even as the coronavirus pandemic continues to worsen across the region.

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

In fact, the National Christmas Tree Association has circulated a 2020 guide containing 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. Maximum head counts 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 said 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."

If a real Christmas tree is on your holiday wish list this year, here is a selection of some of our favorite Christmas tree farms in the Manasquan-Belmar area.

• Chesterfield Christmas Trees
• Wolgast Christmas Tree Farm
• Conover's Farm Christmas Tree Farm
• Harris Farm
• Sigismondi Farms
• Argos Farm
• Anne Ellen Christmas Tree Farm
• Romp Family Christmas Trees
• McLaughlin Tree Farm - Christmas Trees & Nursery
• Countryview Farm Nursery

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