Local orchard kicks off the holidays with Christmas tree cutting

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- For many Americans, the end of Thanksgiving marks the beginning of the holiday season.

For those who celebrate Christmas, the holiday isn't the same without a Christmas tree.

Schweizer Orchards, known for its apples, begins its Christmas tree season every November.

"It's always the time of year when people get done with their Thanksgiving, usually done with their Black Friday shopping, or in between it, and this is the time they start to come out and pick the perfect Christmas tree," Schweizer Orchards Owner Cory Schweizer said.

Schweizer shared his opinion of real trees versus artificial ones, saying nothing will compare to having a real tree.

"A real tree is a natural tree that it's destined to become a Christmas tree, so you can always get the fragrance. It makes sense. You can actually smell it. And, there is no oil products in there. So this is a fresh real tree. So it was actually designed to be a Christmas tree,” said Schweizer.

Schweizer and his family have been Christmas tree farming since 2000, and the tradition extends beyond just the tree. The orchard offers photo ops, hay rides and more in its store.

Cut and pre-cut trees are now available every weekend from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.