Getting a Christmas tree from Parson Farm has become an annual tradition for my family. The first weekend after Thanksgiving, we drive down to Oregon City, past about a dozen other tree farms before we get to Parson’s. Why? Because they are the best. The experience starts by walking into a barn and getting a cup of complimentary hot chocolate. Then, you pay $ 15 for a Doug Fir, or $ 30 for a Noble Fir and proceed outside to grab your saw. Then it’s off to select and cut your own tree. One of the best parts of the experience is cutting down the tree yourself. Sure, it’s really messy as you have to get on your knees and get muddy. Plus, your shoulder feels like it is going to fall off when you’re not even at the halfway point. Nevertheless, there is something satisfying about working for your tree. Once you’ve cut your tree, you drag it to the edge of the growing field and they put the tree onto a cart and take it to be shaken of loose needles and tightly tied for transport. Some tips for those new to the real tree experience: 1) Buy a sturdy stand ahead of time! They sell them there, but they almost always sell out early. Just get one at Fred Meyer or Wal Mart. 2) Dress WARM and dress to get messy!: The field is almost always muddy. Wear pants and shoes that can get dirty and wet. 3) Water the tree! Freshly cut trees suck up a LOT of water the first week or so. Be prepared to add water every 12 hours of so for the first 10 – 14 days. 4) Be prepared for the spiders! These trees can house a lot of spiders, so be prepared to be infested for a few weeks.
Michelle B.
Place rating: 5 Boise, ID
We LOVE this tree farm! Great prices, beautiful trees, very friendly people. They have a barn with a cozy fire and free hot chocolate. There are snacks and decorations available as well. Our sons really liked the free hay ride. This year we mangled up the base of our tree while we were cutting it down; after picking up and delivering our tree from the field to the barn, they evened out the base for us. :) That made getting it in the tree stand much easier! They shake and bail the trees for free too!
Kimberly D.
Place rating: 5 Happy Valley, OR
The best family tree farm. Prices are excellent, trees are great, and staff is friendly. We have been going for years!
