One of the joys of the Christmas season for many people is the selection of a real Christmas tree. For the heartiest tree lovers, cutting down their own tree each year is part of the tradition. It harkens back to a simpler time and Christmas held a deeper meaning. The scent of pine in the cool crisp air, the sound of the saw grinding away at the trunk make for a memorable afternoon in the country followed by a steaming cup of hot chocolate back home as you decorate the tree.
For those of you in the southernmost part of Illinois, there are several options for experiencing this kind of Christmas tree ritual. Any of the sites below can help you find the perfect tree in a rural setting to bring back to your home.
Johnson County:
Allen Farm, located at 2695 Allen Road, Buncombe, IL 62912, is open from the day after Thanksgiving until December 17th.Their hours are 9:00 AM until 4:30 PM, Monday through Saturday and 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM on Sunday. Tree varieties include Scotch Pine which you choose and cut yourself. In addition to trees, they offer wreaths, evergreen boughs and saddles for grave stones along with a variety of table decorations and gifts.
St. Clair County:
Eckert’s Country Store and Farms, located at 951 South Green Mount Road, Belleville, IL 62220, is a Christmas wonderland of fun. For the you-choose and you-cut fans, they offer Scotch Pine and White Pine trees. For fans of precut trees, you can select from Balsam Fir, Canaan Fir, Douglas Fir, Fraser Fir, Scotch Pine and White Pine. This family farm, one of three locations in southern Illinois is now being run by sixth and seventh generation members of the family. This location is open year round and boasts a Country Store, Restaurant, Garden Center and Custard Shop. They go all out for holidays and Christmastime is no different. You may see Santa as he makes many appearances. They provide saws for those who wish to cut their own trees. Call ahead to make sure your favorite tree type is still available and to check current hours of operation (618) 233-0513.
Eckert’s Millstadt Fun Farm, located at 2719 Eckert Orchard Road, Millstadt, IL 62260, is the second of the Eckert family farms offering Christmas trees. At this location you can choose and cut your own Scotch Pine, White Pine and Douglas Fir. Precut trees and holiday decorations are available. Call ahead to check times and availability at 618-476-3260.
Williamson County
Wiswells Christmas Tree Farm, located on Christmas Tree Road, Herrin, IL 62933, provides the opportunity to choose and cut your own Scotch or White Pine Christmas tree. You can also purchase wreaths, grave blankets, roping, gift items, flocked trees and a variety of decorations. They are open from the day after Thanksgiving until the Sunday before Christmas, Monday through Friday from noon until 5:00 PM, Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 AM until 5:00 PM. For more information, you can call 618-983-5114.