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Where to cut down your own Christmas tree this year

Find a tree and make some memories at one of these local tree farms.

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One of the joys of the holiday season is loading everyone in the family car and embarking on a hunt for the perfect Christmas tree. The St. Louis area offers many family-owned and operated farms that families come back to year after year. If this is the holiday you decide to finally ditch an electric tree from Lowe’s for a genuine pine, check out one of these staples. 

Country Pines: This farm opened its doors in 1984, and has been a go-to place for families looking to get that one special tree for the holidays. Stroll through 11 acres of trees while sipping on a complimentary hot spiced cinnamon apple cider or hot chocolate. Open every weekend from 9 a.m.–5 p.m. through December 10. 14533 W. State Hwy. M, Wright City.

Eckert's: At their Belleville location, you can choose and cut down your own tree for $65. Choosing the perfect tree won't be an easy task as Eckert's has thousands to choose from. If you're skipping cutting down the tree this year, there are plenty of pre-cut trees to choose from like Fraser, Balsam, and Scotch. Check the schedule online to visit during one of the acclaimed Breakfast with Santa events to grab a picture with Santa. Now through Dec. 22. 951 S. Green Mount, Belleville, Illinois.

Pea Ridge Forest: You can pair this Christmas tree road trip with picking up bottles of some of your favorite Missouri wines. The family-owned and -operated tree farm boasts an expansive field collection, including Fraser Fir, Scotch Pine, Norway Pine, and White Pine varieties. The forest is open Thursday through Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Hours may fluctuate in peak tree season; check the website for details. 22735 Tree Farm, Hermann.

Starr Pines Christmas Tree Farm: Skip through this 200-acre farm and take in the scenery of the rows and rows of trees. It's free range to choose whichever pine or fir tree speaks to you first. Stop by the barn for all of your custom wreaths, gifts, and holiday ornament needs. Open daily through Christmas from 9 a.m. until dark. Traditional pines are $9 per foot and firs are $12 per foot. 21298 Pleasant Hill, Boonville.