Are you a real tree person or fake? Do you like getting outside, smelling the crisp pine-scented air and carefully selecting the perfect tree each year? Maybe you even like to chop it down yourself, then celebrate your feat with a steaming cup of cocoa? If this sounds like your ideal December afternoon, then read on for some of the best nearby spots sure to get you in the holiday spirit this season.
Riverside Tree Farm
Owned by Kevin and Jane Durning, this family-run farm has a wide variety of pre-cut trees, or you can choose your own and they’ll cut it for you. Varieties include Canaan Fir, Concolor Fir, Fraser Fir, Scotch Pine, White Pine, Serbian Spruce and White Spruce. They’ve also got handmade wreath and garland, and popcorn and cocoa for some festive snacking and sipping. Bring your camera, dress warm and stay awhile!
80 Burdickville Road, Charlestown, RI
Bedrock Tree Farm
This spot is a bit tucked away and hidden, except for a roadside sign directing people off Route 1 to “Christmas Trees.” Upon arrival, the smell of their bonfire and various fir trees give visitors that instant Christmas feel. The best part? They’ve jarred up that scent and sell some of the best holiday scented candles I’ve ever smelled right in their gift shop, along with soaps, scrubs and other gift items. They offer Fraser Fir, Canaan Fir and Douglas Fir trees and their pricing includes assistance with cutting, or a hand saw to borrow, plus wrapping and loading your tree. 106 Woodland Trail, Wakefield, RI
Farmer’s Daughter
This insta-famous spot is becoming a local favorite for all seasons. They’ve gone big this holiday season with plenty of sparkle and festivities for grownups and kids alike. Their Tree Farm is open daily until dusk (check their website for times) and there will be donuts, hot cider and hot chocolate from Hard Pressed Cider Company available on select days.
Warm up on the weekends by their crackling fire pit and let the kids take a ride on Santa’s barrel train on December 7th& 8th (rain date 14th & 15th). They offer an expansive collection of trees and provide complimentary tree services including measuring, 
cutting and bailing. Make sure to stop in their gift shop, which is transformed into a winter wonderland this time of year, brimming with handmade greenery, wreaths, ornaments and many more holiday and gift items.
716 Mooresfield Road, Wakefield, RI (Tree Farm located at 1650 Broad Rock Road)
Yetter Christmas Tree Farm
Run by Lee Umrysz and family and set on 16-acres of land, this farm is a magical Mystic tradition for many local families. Their tree varieties include Balsam Fir; Douglas Fir; Fraser Fir; Blue Spruce; White Spruce, White Pine; Concolor Fir; Canaan Fir and Cork-Bark Fir, and they also sell wreaths, sprays, ornaments, decorations and handmade crafts and gifts. You can pick up a pre-cut tree or get your hands dirty chopping one down yourself, while their helpful staff patrol on four wheelers to transport your freshly cut tree to the front of the property for preparation and loading onto/into your vehicle.
94 Yetter Road Mystic, CT
Big John Leyden’s Christmas Trees
John coined the phrase, “Real trees for real people,” encouraging fellow Rhode Islanders to buy local and support local farmers. Now retired and living in Florida, the legend of “Big John” lives on and his farm is lovingly run by his sons, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
A Rhode Island institution and only available at the farm, Big John Leyden’s offer choose and cut, or you can cut the day you arrive. Their professionally trained staff will cut your tree, bale it, wrap it and load it. Bring the pets and the whole family for a classic Christmas-filled day, including plenty of photo opportunities with their 20-foot-tall Santa and antique fire truck.
179 Plain Meeting House Rd. West Greenwich, RI
