Technology has given us wonderful things, like the fake Christmas tree. And yes, while the plastic tree is convenient as heck – let’s face it – it’s just not the same as having a REAL tree. And there’s no tree like one freshly cut straight out of the ground at a Christmas tree farm. As the holiday approaches, here’s our list of top local Christmas tree farms where you can do-it-yourself. You might have to drive for some of them, but it’s an experience unlike any other.

  • Hebert’s Christmas Tree Farm

    130 A.J. Lane, Hackberry LA, 70645 – (337) 762-4732

    Probably the nearest farm would be down the road in Hackberry in Cameron Parish. You can pre-tag the tree you want starting in November, which is cool. You’ll have to do the cutting yourself, but saws are available at the site. They’ll also bale (wrap) your tree, as well. You can also take tours and visit their gift shop.

    Directions – From La. 27, go west on La. 390 and turn left on Maggie Hebert Road. Then go ¾ of a mile and turn left on A.J. Lane. They’re open daily from 8 a.m. until dark.

  • Grant Christmas Tree Farm

    716 Whitaker Rd., Grant, LA 70644 – 1-800-987-NOEL (6635)

    Now we’re getting a little further out, but Grant Christmas Tree Farm is definitely worth the drive. With over 2,000 trees to choose from, you’ll find what you need. But Grant is also a tourist attraction, giving the family a little more to do than just drive out and bag a tree. If you visit on the three Saturdays following Thanksgiving, you’ll be able to watch the operation of an old-time cane syrup mill. You can even watch as pack animals operate the sugarcane press to get the juices used to make syrup. On top of that, their kitchen is open until 3 p.m. Go out in the early afternoon and make a day of it with the kids. The farm also has its own beehives and harvests its own fresh honey. Take the tour. It’s worth it.The facility offers tree stands, baling, pre-tagging and wreaths, as well. You’ll have to cut your own, but this is the granddaddy of Christmas tree farms.

    Directions – Take La. 26 east out of DeRidder or west out of Oberlin. Turn north on La. 377 and then turn west onto Hamilton Cemetery Road until you reach Whitaker Road. They’re open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and on Sundays from noon to 6 p.m.

  • Miltons' Christmas Tree Farm

    1605 Hwy 457, Lecompte LA 71346 – (318) 442-0565

    If you want more of a no-frills approach to tree-hunting, Miltons’ Christmas Tree Farm in Lecompte has a large selection of trees getting as high as 14 feet tall, featuring cedar, pine and Leyland cypress. Miltons’ features a do-it-yourself approach, but they will also assist you in cutting a tree, if needed. Their website also features a printable map, which is handy, since most tree farms are way out in the sticks. Pre-tagging isn’t available, and the farm is open starting the day after Thanksgiving.

    Directions: Take La. 1 south out of Alexandria or north out of Marksville. Turn south on La. 457. OR take La. 457 north out of Lecompte. The farm is about five miles south of Alexandria near LSU-A. They’re open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays.

  • Peachy Pines

    100 Locker Road, Deville LA, 71328 – (318) 449-1142

    Another farm located in the Alexandria area, Peach Pines also features tours, tree stands and saws for you to use. Their pre-tagging doesn’t start until after Thanksgiving, but they are open all the way up to Christmas Day, just in case you’re running behind, which could make it worth the drive for some.

    Directions: Take La. 107 east out of Pineville. Travel southeast and take a left onto Kastenek Road. The road will eventually turn back north, becoming Locker Road. Signs line La. 107 to lead you to the farm.

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