Metro Parent / November 2011 / Christmas Tree Farms in Southeast Michigan

Subscribe to Metro Parent : Southeast Michigan Holiday Guides

Christmas Tree Farms in Southeast Michigan

Find the perfect 2012 family tannenbaum for your home at one of these top holiday tree destinations near Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw and Wayne counties

(page 1 of 3)

For many, bundling up the family and venturing out to find the perfect Christmas tree to "spruce" up the home for the holidays is a tradition. And with so many quality "u-cut" tree farms to choose from, you can find exactly what you need just outside the Motor City's limits to continue or start a tradition of your own!

Each of these tree farms offer a variety of tree types, and most of them are "u-cut" farms. Some have the option of pre-cut trees, and they may be able to cut one for you.

Before you head out to a farm with your family, there are a few things you should keep in mind:

• Many tree farms offer activities like bonfires, hayrides and food – if you visit on the weekends.
• Don't worry about bringing a saw and ropes to attach your tree to your car (well, maybe a few bungee cords); most tree farms have saws on hand, and they'll trim and package your tree so it's easy to take home.
• Each farm opens on a different date for its 2012 Christmas season. Most open the weekend after Thanksgiving, but it's best to call ahead to check.
• Prices and tree types will vary depend on the farm.
• Some farms don't accept credit or debit cards because not all farms have electricity. Make sure you bring cash of your checkbook with you, just in case!

For even more tree farm options, visit Christmas Tree Map or the Michigan Christmas Tree Association.

Addison-Oaks Christmas Tree Farm

• Address: 355 Lake George Road, Oakland
• 2012 schedule: noon-5 p.m. weekdays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekends
• Phone: 248-814-0583
• Drive time: one hour north of Detroit

The scenic 20-acre tree farm is truly nestled in the woods. Surrounded by Bald Mountain State Recreation Area and Addison Oaks County Park, you can often spot deer, rabbits and geese in the area. Kids get candy canes, and families can warm up with some hot chocolate, cider and snacks.

Arend Tree Farms

• Address: 3512 Notten Road, Grass Lake
• 2012 schedule: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily
• Phone: 734-475-7584
• Drive time: one hour west of Detroit (past Ann Arbor)

Arend has been serving southern Michigan since the 1930s, making it one of the oldest – and, coincidentally, one of the largest – tree farms in the area. On the weekends, you'll be taken to the cutting area by horse-drawn wagons to find a tree within your budget.