Raleigh Christmas Tree Shopping Guide For 2020

Raleigh, NC — As the COVID-19 pandemic threatens some of America's most well-loved holiday traditions in 2020, it may still be possible to find the perfect Christmas tree for your family — and do it safely.

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. During this unprecedented year, Christmas tree lots and choose-and-cut farms nationwide are taking precautions as the coronavirus pandemic worsens to ensure buyers can take home a 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 said on its website this year.

In fact, the association has developed 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.

If a real Christmas tree is on your wish list in 2020, here is a selection of some of our favorite Christmas tree farms near Raleigh.

• Phillips Farms
• Raleigh City Farm
• Pop-N-Son Christmas Tree Farm
• Back Achers Christmas Tree Farm
• Jordan Lake Christmas Tree Farm
• The Rusty Bucket
• Boyce Farms

Getting the most out of your real Christmas tree can take some patience, practice and good advice. 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