Find your perfect tree

GOSHEN — Orange County is promoting its selection of holiday trees for the season.
According to a press release from the county, Orange County has some 18 tree farms where visitors can find the perfect tree for the holiday season.
“Half the fun is searching out the perfect Christmas tree,” Orange County Tourism Director Amanda Dana said in the relase. “Find the one that will look picture-perfect in your home. Chop one down with your family, sip hot chocolate, and take your best holiday card photos to complete this memorable experience. If your timing’s right, there could even be a dusting of snow on those fragrant branches.”
According to the release, the landscape of the Hudson Valley is the best place for people to spend the day looking for a tree, just an hour out of New York City.
The 18 farms are listed online at OrangeTourism.org.
The county advises visitors to call ahead regarding hours of operation, selection of trees, or holiday events taking place.
Emmerich Tree Farm, 101 Sleepy Valley Road, Warwick: Choose and cut spruce, pine, and fir situated on a beautiful south-facing hillside. An expanded selection of fir trees will be available for the 2018 season as well as more cut-your-own trees taller than seven feet. Free parking, wagon rides to the field, music, bonfire, and free hot chocolate are available. Open weekends, beginning Friday, November 23, 2018. 845-986-0151, emmerichtreefarm.com
Farmside Acres, 280 Angola Road, Cornwall: Choose from a selection of trees, such as Scotch pine, Douglas fir and blue spruce with saws provided. Visitors can enjoy complimentary candy canes, cider, and donuts upon arrival. Open December 1-2, 2018, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. 845-534-6382, Facebook: Farmside Acres, farmsideacres@gmail.com.
Manza Family Farm, 730 Route 211, Montgomery: Farm animals, pony rides, visits from Santa, and real reindeer add to the family fun at Manza Family Farm. Choose from a large selection of freshly-cut Douglas, Fraser, concolor and blue spruce trees, and a variety of wreaths and roping. Find trimmings for your new tree at the farm’s gift shop, as well as hot drinks, food and baked goods. Open daily beginning Friday, November 23 through December 23, 2018. 845-692-4364, www.manzafamilyfarm.net
Pierson’s Farm, 1448 Route 211 West, Middletown: Explore the wonderful collection of trees, wreaths, roping, poinsettias and a gift shop at Pierson’s Farm. Visitors can choose from a wide selection of precut trees or cut their own. Complimentary hot cider is available. Open daily beginning Saturday, December 1, 2018, through Sunday, December 23, Monday - Thursday, 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and Friday – Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. 845-386-1882, www.piersonsfarm.com.
Stone Oak Tree Farm, 207 Stony Bar Road, Slate Hill: Hike more than eight acres and choose from blue spruce, white spruce, and Canaan fir trees. Visit the Bed & Breakfast, featuring a roaring fireplace and gift shop, all in a beautiful timber-framed barn. Open weekends beginning Saturday, November 25, 2018, 10 a.m. to dusk. www.stoneoaktreefarm.com.
Extend your stay with overnight accommodations at one of Orange County’s cozy B&Bs or select hotels. Acclaimed farm-to-table restaurants and craft beverage locations offer seasonal menus, perfect for warming up after a day on the farm.
A comprehensive listing of area attractions, lodging, and events can be found at OrangeTourism.org. Like Orange County Tourism on Facebook for the latest news on local happenings. For a free copy of the Orange County Travel Guide, e-mail tourism@orangecountygov.com or call 845-615-3860.