It’s beginning to smell a lot like Christmas—7 spots to find a fresh tree

The jury is still out on whether it's more environmentally sustainable to buy an artificial Christmas tree or bring home the real deal. But one thing’s for sure: Nothing compares to the fragrance of a fresh cut tree in your living room.

Local options abound for those who prefer the genuine article. Plenty of Bay Area tree lots offer extras, like delivery service and flocking. Some will even indulge your inner lumberjack by letting you cut down your own live tree. 

For those who want the tree smell without the guilt, renting a fresh tree is always an option. 

Bayshore

Previously known as Christmas Tree Jamboree, ABC Tree Farm sells Nordmann, Noble and Douglas firs at its Bayshore Boulevard location (there are other ABC Tree Farm locations throughout the Bay Area). If you’re into the whole “White Christmas” vibe, flocking is available upon request.

🕑 9 a.m.-9 p.m. 
📍 531 Bayshore Blvd.
☎️ (503) 750-8456
🔗 ABC Tree Farms

Golden Gate Heights, Sunset

The famed pumpkin patches turn back into Christmas tree farms for the holiday season at Clancy’s two city locations: 2101 Sloat Blvd. near the San Francisco Zoo and 1620 Seventh Ave. Clancy’s has been in business since 1949, so you’re in good hands. They also offer delivery service and flocking for an extra fee. Parking is free and abundant.

🕑 Hours vary by location
📍 2101 Sloat Blvd. and 1620 Seventh Ave.
☎️ (415) 753-2689
🔗 Clancy’s Trees

Various Bay Area Locations 

Delancey Street is a ground-breaking residential self-help organization geared toward giving those who have hit rock bottom a second chance at life. A beloved community favorite, shop at one of their two lots in San Francisco (and more in the larger Bay Area) knowing that your purchase could change someone’s life. 

🕑 Hours Vary By Location 
📍 Pier 32 and 2020 Market St. and other locations
☎️ (415) 957-9800
🔗 delanceytrees.org

Fort Mason 

Any tree you purchase at the Guardsmen Tree Lot—which claims to be the largest in San Francisco—benefits at-risk youth, so you can feel good about spending your holiday dollars here. You can also pick up wreaths, garlands and tree stands. If you’d like to offer even more support, buy a ticket to their tree lot party on Dec. 17. It promises a night of dancing and drinks in a winter wonderland. 

🕑 9 a.m.-9 p.m. 
📍 2 Marina Blvd.
☎️ (503) 750-8456
🔗 sftreelot.guardsmen.org

Oakland

Brent’s has been in business in the East Bay since 1958, making it one of the oldest tree-outfitting operations in the Bay Area. Brent grows the trees himself on his Sierra Nevada farm and sells them at locations near the Grand Lake Theatre and Oakland Airport. While flocking won’t be available this year, Brent’s offers delivery for an extra fee and also sells wreaths, mistletoe and garlands. 

📍 Various Oakland Locations 
☎️ (510) 635-2773
🔗 brentschristmastrees.com

Petaluma 

This Petaluma family farm offers both cut-your-own and pre-cut trees, including different varieties of firs and silver tips. The operation, well loved in the North Bay, also has wreaths and garlands for sale as well as a holiday gift shop.

🕑 2-5 p.m. weekdays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekends 
📍 391 Marshall Ave., Petaluma
☎️ (707) 762-6317

Half Moon Bay 

If you’re looking for the complete holiday experience, come to Santa’s Tree Farm in Half Moon Bay. Here you’ll find 487 acres of trees available for cutting (pre-cuts are also on hand). You’ll also find an elves’ workshop, train rides and visits from Santa himself on select dates. This full-service operation offers flocking, netting, fire retardant and delivery for its six types of trees. 

🕑 weekdays 9 a.m.-5 p.m., weekends 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
📍 78 Pilarcitos Creek Rd.
☎️ (650) 726-2246
🔗 santastreefarm.com