Tis the season for hauling out the holiday decor and picking out a tree. If you want the full experience this year, head out for one of these Mid-Missouri Christmas tree farms and make some seriously festive memories with the kids.
1. Starr Pines - Boonville, MO (30 minutes from Columbia)
Cut your own pines and firs, then browse the wreaths and gifts while sipping hot cider. Your pup is even welcome on a leash. Open 7 days a week from Thanksgiving to Christmas.
2. Country Pines - Wright City, MO (1 hour 10 minutes from Columbia)
Cut your own pine tree then enjoy the large heated barn filled with holiday decor, wreaths snacks, and free cocoa and cider. Open weekends November 18 - December 10.
3. Pea Ridge Forest - Hermann, MO (1 hour and 10 minutes from Columbia)
Choose your own pine, spruce or fir trees. On the weekends enjoy activities like hay rides, miniature train rides, corn bin and visits from Santa. Open Wednesday through Sunday from November 18 through December.
4. Christmas Traditions Tree Farm - Wright City, MO (1 hour 15 minutes from Columbia)
Choose and cut your own pines or select from pre-cut firs. Enjoy free photos with Santa and free hot chocolate. Opens the Friday after Thanksgiving and then open Saturdays and Sundays through mid-December (or based on tree availability).
5. Luther and Loxy - La Monte, MO (1 hour and 20 minutes from Columbia)
Cut your own pine tree or choose from pre-cut fir trees. Then enjoy browsing the wreaths and gifts along with photo opps at the Elf Training House. Opens the Friday after Thanksgiving and remains open on weekends through December.
And if you want a real tree but don't need to cut it yourself check out:
Lloyds Family Farm - Ashland, MO
Select pre-cut fir and pine trees. Opens the Friday after Thanksgiving and remains open on weekends until the trees run out.
Downtown Optimist Club - Columbia, MO
Pre-cut first and pines with proceeds helping the youth of Columbia. Opens the Friday after Thanksgiving and remains open every day until the trees are gone.
